Paper documents
- Ensure hands are clean and dry, use thin cotton gloves to protect documents from grease/dirt
- Keep documents flat if possible, avoid folding
- Avoid frequent handling
- Make sure documents are clean before storing - remove staples, paper clips etc.
- Store in acid free folders/boxes
- Store in a clean/dry/dark/well ventilated environment, avoiding exposure to light and temperature/humidity fluctuations
- Protect from damp, mould, pollution, insects
- Check contents regularly for signs of damage.
Books
- Avoid exposure to heat / light / dampness / excessive dryness
- Avoid dust which can lead to discolouration and encourage mould growth
- Always open books carefully, supporting the book if necessary. Turn pages carefully.
- Ideal storage environment: store in a cool, dry place, protect from direct light, avoid temperature/humidity fluctuations
- Allow good air circulation
- Store books neatly and upright – do not allow to lean sideways
- Large books, e.g. bibles are best stored horizontally
- When storing in boxes, use archive boxes made from acid free material.
- Check regularly for signs of damage
Photos
- Avoid high temperatures - can cause fading/mirroring
- Avoid exposure to light - can cause fading
- Avoid dampness which can produce mould
- Poor quality storage and framing can cause chemical damage, discolouration or tarnish
- Keep handling to a minimum, ensuring hands are clean and dry. Handle photo by the edge or use support, e.g. card.
- To protect from excessive handling of original, scan where possible.
- Store in a cool environment, avoiding excessive damp/dry conditions
- Avoid exposure to light. If photo is framed, use ultraviolet filtration which helps protect original.
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