Here are the last three tips in our series on Preservation Tips.
Tip #8: Access and Preservation Go Together
When it comes to protecting your special items, you have to remember that as important as they are to preserve, you also must also be able to enjoy and admire your collections. So, here are several more tips you can use to protect them and ensure that others can enjoy them for years to come.
Make sure to document information about your photos or documents. Although some people write very carefully on the back of photographs, you can also create a digital reproduction of the image and have the information included there or keep a record book describing the items together in a special place. It’s important that you keep your collections organized and properly label things so others will understand their importance and details. It also helps to store them in properly labeled enclosures so it will minimize the items being damaged because someone was rummaging around in a box.
Another thing to consider, is that if you’re displaying an item, consider giving it “a rest.” Have it out and then put it away for a while and let something else go in its place. You should also consider making an inventory and detailed list of all your special items in case of a disaster. This will be important if it’s necessary to make an insurance claim.
Tip #9: Be Informed
Like anything, it’s easy to get bad advice when it comes to protecting your valuables. Here are just a few excellent online resources that offer solid advice:
Library of Congress Preservation Directorate
National Archives and Records Administration
American Institute of Conservation
Tip #10: Have Professionals Do Repairs
When something you treasure gets damaged, ask yourself how important it is to you. If it’s something with a lot of value either sentimentally or monetarily, have it professionally repaired. Unfortunately, most people try repairing their important item or keepsake and end up damaging it even more. Here’s a link on how to find a good conservator.
A special thanks to the Preservation Underground for this wonderful information!