Sue KellermanJudith O. Sieg Chair for Preservation

Penn State University Libraries

Topics to cover:

About the Penn State Digitization and Preservation Department

The current condition of our collectionsAgents of destructionPreservation tips – care, handling and

storageResources to help you

About the Penn State Digitization and Preservation Department

Destruction of the paper itself is the major threat to the stability of paper

Our crumbling history …

Rolled and crumbling Millheim Journal newspaper issues

Acids Unstable inks Fluctuating temps and Rh Light Pollution Insects People

Lignin, a substance found in plant fibers once exposed to light, high Rh and pollutants in the air weaken and break the paper fibers

The Gentle Touch by Jackie Gleason (phonodisc); Philadelphia (VHS)

Wet books … almost as bad as a wet cat!

So what can you do?

Keeping collections in a stable environment is the single most important action you can take!

Keep collections in the DARK – especially from

sunlight

Store collections in archivally- safe folders, boxes and sleeves

Layer collection for added protection – folder then box

•Store in cool, dry place with minimum light

•Do not use magnetic or self-adhesive albums

Magnification view of Bookkeepers solution laying among paper fibers

Lots of on-line resources too!

Thank You!

Questions?

Sue KellermanJudith O. Sieg Chair for PreservationHead, Digitization and Preservation Department402 Pattee LibraryPenn State UniversityUniversity Park, PA 16802

Phone: 814-863-4696Email: LSK3@psu.edu