Our illustrated primer is written by conservators and covers the proper handling and storage of paper, photographs, textiles and books. This guide also includes case studies and a list of several additional resources.
View by section:
SECTION 1: Archival Storage of Paper
Documents, manuscripts, prints, drawings, pamphlets, periodicals, newspapers, postcards and ephemera are typically made of paper—an organic substance that is vulnerable to deterioration over time.
SECTION 2: Archival Storage of Photographic Materials
Photographs are found throughout our museums, libraries, historical societies, archives, and homes. Often taken for granted, photographs are actually fragile and easily damaged. Fading, stains, distortion, and other physical changes are signs of their deterioration. Unfortunately, deterioration is often the result of the inherent instability of certain photographic processes and materials
SECTION 3: Archival Storage of Textiles
The term "textile" covers a wide range of objects made of fiber— historic dress, flags, samplers, quilts and tapestries—as well as costume accessories such as handkerchiefs, hats and gloves. Due to their utilitarian nature, most textiles survive by chance.
SECTION 3: An introduction to book repair
Books are meant to be handled, but their very use causes damage from wear and tear. Poor storage conditions and acidic paper also contribute to their deterioration. Even new publications printed on acid-free paper fall apart because of poor-quality adhesive bindings.