Providing a sound environment for preserving paper-based material
The environment
Despite advances in technology, people today continue to print important publications on what could be considered an economically convenient paper base, such as ground wood pulp. This paper is inherently unstable in nature.
Conservation surveys of items within libraries has shown it is not uncommon to find books in which the pages are brown in appearance and crumble at a touch. Unfortunately some of these historically significant publications are only three to four decades old.
To preserve these important documents they must be printed on papers designated as permanent or archival quality.
Paper and most binding materials are organic, rendering them prone to a number of environmental hazards. Temperature and relative humidity, light, mould, insects and pests, dust and air pollution are hazards that need to be addressed when considering the storage of paper-based collections.
Temperature and relative humidity
These factors can cause problems, especially in Queensland. The sub-tropical and tropical climates produce high levels of humidity which increases the rate of organic deterioration of paper by acids and also increases the risk of mould. Air conditioning is used to control these conditions within most large institutions, but this is not always practical for people with small budgets. If the latter is the case, identify an area of your building that is well ventilated, avoid damp corners and do not store material near windows or heaters.
If your building is air-conditioned, try to maintain the temperature at 21 degrees Celsius and the relative humidity at 50 per cent.
Light
Ultraviolet rays and fluorescent light can damage paper and bindings by reacting chemically with the paper fibre and causing brittleness or discolouration.
Exposure to light also affects pigments, inks, dyes and other colourings, producing a bleaching effect which eventually leads to fading of the material.
To overcome these problems store items away from direct light, use u.v. light filters where fluorescent tubes are in place and position blinds or drapes over windows to minimise the effects of sunlight. It is important to remember when the material is on display to exchange it with other items frequently, as collections should be exposed to light for the briefest possible time.
Mould, insects and pests
Always present in the air, mould spores will spread in poorly ventilated areas with a relative humidity of above 65 per cent. Insects and, to a lesser degree, rodents also inhabit these conditions. To minimise the damage caused by these biological attacks, do not allow food or drink near collections or in the immediate vicinity. Inspect items regularly, ensure the area is kept clean and keep collections in a well-ventilated position.
Dust and air pollution
While it appears innocent enough, dust has the capacity to absorb destructive air pollutants, harbour insect eggs, trap moisture and is a haven for mould spores. An effective way to deal with dust build-up is to brush the dust into the nozzle of a vacuum cleaner on low suction using a soft brush, taking care not to damage the paper.
Automobiles and the burning of fossil fuels generate gases such as sulphur dioxide. Where an air-conditioning system exists, it should have a filtration system capable of stopping these gases from entering the building. If there is no air-conditioning available to protect your collection, place the material into archival boxes or wrap it in archival tissue.
More information:
- Telephone: +61 7 3840 7779
- Fax: +61 7 3842 9060
- Mail: Collection Preservation PO Box 3488 South Brisbane Queensland 4101
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For general enquiries:
- Ask at your local Queensland public library
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Last updated: 17th July 2009
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