If you were unable to attend our popular webinar on book preservation with cultural heritage professional, Rebecca Elder, you're in luck! The recording is now available!
Topics We Discussed
What is a book?
We delved into the history of books, their construction, the various components comprising a book, and common issues they may face.
Importance of Environment
Maintaining an optimal storage environment is paramount for preserving your collection. Rebecca outlined the damaging effects of incorrect temperature, relative humidity, and light exposure on books, along with recommending ideal environmental conditions.
Shelving Guidelines
Rebecca provided insights into selecting suitable shelving units, proper book storage on shelves, and preferred types of storage boxes.
Handling Tips
Should we glove up or not? Rebecca has the answer! She offered valuable guidelines on safely handling books to prevent accidental damage and ensure secure transportation.
Cleaning Recommendations
Rebecca shared practical suggestions on the best methods for cleaning dirty books, emphasizing the importance of proper cleaning practices.
Exhibit Techniques
When it comes to exhibiting books safely, Rebecca outlined effective exhibition techniques that allow for display while minimizing the risk of damage.
Rebecca's Favorite Preservation Resources:
- Creating Four Flap Enclosures ▶️ - Rebecca leads you through a step-by-step tutorial on creating four-flap enclosures.
- Creating a Corrugated Clamshell Box - The Library Company's step-by-step instructions on creating a drop-spine style phase box.
- Northeast Document Conservation Center (NEDCC) Preservation Leaflets - Well-regarded brief readings on a wide range of preservation topics created by a large regional conservation center.
- National Park Service (NPS) Conserve-o-Grams - Short leaflets on the care of museum objects, including many specific topics.
- National Museum of African American History & Culture (NMAAHC) Tips for Preserving Your Family Treasures - Easy tips for caring for family treasures created by professionals at the Smithsonian.
- American Institute for Conservation (AIC) Caring for Your Belongings - Brief readings on caring for family treasures created by the professional association for conservators.
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Gaylord Archival®
Guide to Collections Care
Written by conservators, our illustrated primer covers the proper handling and storage of paper, photographs, textiles and books. This guide also includes the introduction to book repair featured in our Bookcraft Book Repair Guide.