Storage

What to look for

• Poor quality acidic paper that has become brittle and discoloured
• Bindings breaking down the spine hinges due to the leather needing treatment
• Exposed books which have gathered dust
• Insect damage
• Mould growths on the covers or pages (bacterial spores or mildew evidence)
• Potential water ingress sources

What can be done

Try to maintain a consistent, cool temperature, somewhere between 16-19 ^oC, with a constant of 55-60% relative humidity. Higher temperatures and moisture can lead to increased acidity within the paper, higher relative humidity and temperatures will lead to mould growth. Our conservators are able to advise on the best storage conditions for your collections. Contact us

Try not to store documents and books in places where fluctuations in temperature and humidity are common, for example, in cellars and lofts. Too cold is better than too hot.

Protect books from direct sun light by fitting protective Ultra Violet filters over windows. Use protective phase boxes or book shoes made from archival box folding board and consider lining shelves with an acid barrier paper or board.

Try not to pack shelves too tightly. This helps to maintain a good circulation of air around the books. You should also avoid packing books together too tightly as it increases the risk of mechanical damage when putting books back on or off the shelves.

Store books next to books of a similar size so they are properly supported, use end supports where necessary. Larger books should be laid flat. Do not store books face or spine down on shelves.

Do not allow books to tilt as this can place stress on their structures and lead to damage.