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Preserving Your Important Historical Documents

17 March 2023 by Brianna Cole

Historical documents can take many shapes, and it is common for individuals to have essential items they want to keep safe. Fortunately, there are media preservation best practices that can limit the rate at which these documents degrade.

Know The Importance Of Proper Storage

Storing historical documents in the right environment is essential to preserve them. The ideal storage conditions for paper-based documents include low humidity, stable temperature, and minimal exposure to light. High humidity and temperature can cause the paper to degrade and encourage mold growth, while excessive exposure to sunlight can cause fading and discoloration.

In addition to environmental factors, it is crucial to store historical documents in appropriate containers. Acid-free boxes, folders, and sleeves are the best options for preserving paper-based documents. These containers protect the documents from dust, moisture, and physical damage. It is also vital to ensure that the containers are not too tight or loose, as this can lead to the creasing and bending of the documents.

Use Sound Handling Practices When Interacting With The Documents

Handling historical documents requires special care and attention. It is critical to avoid touching the documents with bare hands, as oils and sweat from the skin can cause damage. Wearing gloves made of nitrile or cotton is best for handling historical pictures and documents. Gloves made of latex can damage the documents due to the chemicals in the latex, which is why you should be mindful when choosing gloves.

When handling historical documents, it is essential to support them properly to prevent creasing or tearing. These documents can be relatively fragile, which could lead to incidental damage occurring from even routine handling. Two people should handle large documents and lay them flat on a clean surface.

Take Advantage Of Professional Media Preservation Services

Preservation methods like lamination, encapsulation, and deacidification can guarantee the long-term survival of historical documents. Lamination involves covering the document with a layer of plastic film, which protects it from damage caused by light and moisture. Encapsulation involves sealing the document between two layers of polyester film to protect it from dust, moisture, and physical damage.

Another preservation method for historical documents is deacidification. This involves treating the paper with an alkaline solution to neutralize any acids present in the paper. This solution can help prevent further degradation and prolong the document's life. Deacidification can also make the paper more flexible and easier to handle. A professional media preservation solutions provider can assist you with determining the most suitable option for the documents you need to keep safe. 

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