To make sure archives last as long as possible and can benefit future generations, they need to be preserved in optimal conditions and actively looked after.
Ideally, a dedicated, qualified conservator will be hired or work with an archive. For complex document treatment or any issues you are unsure how to tackle, we recommend contacting a qualified conservator through the Institute of Conservation.
But there are a range of basic tasks to help preserve collections.
A range of basic equipment can be purchased to help with this. The information below provides guidance on basic measures which can be taken to make sure your documents stay in optimum condition.
The Basics
- Where possible, archives should be stored in temperature controlled store rooms kept stable between 15 – 17 degrees.
- Ideally store rooms will have no windows and will be kept dark when not in use.
- The records should be stored in acid free containers and easy to access.
Equipment
Below you’ll find a list if equipment you can use to care for your collections. You can purchase these items online in a range of conservation supply stores.
Smoke Sponge
Smoke sponges are used to clean documents which have dust or dirt on them. Gentle, rubbing motions make the document cleaner and easier to read.
Staple Removers
All metal clips and fastenings should be removed to prevent rust damage and discolouration.
Archival Tape
Once metal fastenings have been removed, larger bundles of papers should be tied together using acid free archive tape.
Brass Paperclips
Smaller bundles of papers can be secured with brass paperclips which do not rust and will not damage the record.
Gloves
Gloves should only be used to handle photographs, negatives and transparencies. Well washed hands are fine for all other records and documents.
Pencil
If you need to write reference numbers on records, a 2B pencil should be used in a non-conspicuous place to ensure the pencil marks can be removed in future if needed.
More Resources
The resource toolkit on the ArchI’ve Created page contains resources which relate to the ArchI’ve Preserved and Conserved campaign.
These resources allow conservators to join in with Explore Your Archive and Advocate for the work they do with archives.
