Introduction
Here are some actions that may be implemented to prolong the
life of fragile papers. Preservation steps such as
washing, de-acidification, repair of torn sheets,
rebinding, fumigation or disaster recovery
require professional attention.
If your paper disintegration has become too
advanced for restoration, preservation, or
routine physical handling, microfilming is a
possible alternative for retaining the content of
the papers.
If you have questions, please contact the Special Collections staff at (719) 531-6333 ext. 2253.
Paper Preservation:
All papers, regardless of the materials from
which they are made, will deteriorate with age,
even when conditions are ideal. Such
deterioration can only be minimized or, at best,
retarded.
Storage Conditions and Paper Materials:
Temperature:
Ideal temperature is 60-70
degrees Fahrenheit with little or no fluctuation.
Below 60 degrees there is a tendency for moisture
to condense Above 70 degrees paper will become,
over a period of time, dry and brittle.
Humidity:
Ideal relative humidity (R.H.) is 30-45
percent. Too high humidity will encourage vermin
and mold growth. Too low humidity will cause
paper to become dry and brittle. Fluctuations in
humidity should be kept to a minimum to prevent
the swelling/shrinking of materials.
Light:
Visible light, either natural or
artificial, bleaches ink, colors and covers.
Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light cause
paper to become brittle and lose its strength. If
items cannot be stored in darkened or dimmed
area, use only incandescent lighting or specially
filtered fluorescent lamps.
Storage:
Generally it is better to
place an item flat to prevent stress on bindings
and paper.
Handling:
Keep handling to a minimum.
Actions to Avoid:
- Use of Scotch tape or other pressure
sensitive tapes as these can stain and
oxidize paper.
- Wrapping the items in highly acidic paper
as this can attract vermin and
accelerates acidification of good paper
by contact. A good quality acid-free
paper or container should be used.
- Sealing items in plastic except for inert
polyester sheets or sleeves. Do not
laminate papers; lamination is
irreversible. Even placing papers between
sheets of plastic is not recommended
except for polyester sheets.
- Storing in an area where there is danger
of fire, flood or theft.
- Storing in an area where lack of
housekeeping will provide a climate for
vermin growth such as in an attic or
garage. Vermin are attracted by damp,
food, dark, and poor air circulation.
Vermin must be controlled or they will do
irreparable damage.
- Photocopying. This can place extreme
stress on books and other materials. When
photocopying, use great care !
- Storing material folded. It is much wiser
to unfold all items. However, it the item
is too brittle to be opened or unfolded
easily, then consult a conservator on the
Local History staff.
- Storing materials that will rust or
discolor the paper. Stainless steel pins
or staples should replace old pins,
staples and other paper clips. Also
remove strings and rubber bands.
- Placing newspaper clippings with other
papers. Acid-free paper or polyester
sheets should be used as a separator.
- Storing in air tight containers. Air
circulation is necessary for
preservation.
- Storing in an area where air pollution is
excessive, such as garages. Atmospheric
contamination is a major cause of
chemical degradation resulting in paper
becoming discolored, fragile, and
brittle. If air-filtered storage is
available, the effects of pollution can
be lessened.
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