LibGuides: Historic Preservation: Paper

Wash hands thoroughly and use gloves to avoid transferring oil, dirt, and moisture to the paper. Gloves are particularly important when handling rare or valuable paper items.
Handle paper with clean, dry hands, and avoid touching the surface as much as possible. Hold it from the edges or use support tools like spatulas or tongs to minimize contact.
Avoid unnecessarily folding, creasing, or rolling paper, as these actions can cause permanent damage.
If you need to turn pages, ensure your hands are clean and dry. Support the page from the edges and use a soft, clean brush or a piece of acid-free paper to separate stuck pages.

Store paper in a clean, stable environment with controlled temperature and relative humidity. The ideal conditions for paper are around 65-70°F (18-21°C) and 45-55% relative humidity.
Protect paper from exposure to light, especially ultraviolet (UV) light, as it can cause fading and degradation. Display items should be rotated periodically to minimize light exposure.
Store paper items in acid-free folders, boxes, or enclosures made from archival-quality materials. Acidic materials accelerate paper deterioration, so it is crucial to use acid-free or buffered materials that meet preservation standards.
If paper items are framed or displayed, us UV-filtering glazing to protect them from harmful light exposure. Ensure the frame package is sealed to prevent dust and pests from entering.

Regularly inspect paper items for signs of damage, pests, or deterioration. Early detection of issues allows for prompt intervention and prevents further deterioration.
Remove surface dirt and dust using a soft, clean brush or a gentle vacuum with a low suction setting. Work in one direction, using light strokes to avoid causing mechanical damage.
Avoid using liquid cleaners or solvents on paper unless absolutely necessary and done by a trained conservator. Incorrect cleaning methods can cause irreversible damage.
Repair tears, loose edges, or detached elements using conservation-grade materials. However, any repair work should be carried out by a professional conservator.

Limit exposure of valuable or fragile paper items to exhibition conditions. Consider using high-quality facsimiles or reproductions for display to minimize risk to the original.
If displaying original paper items, use appropriate supports, mounts, or cases to minimize physical stress. Avoid using adhesive tapes, metal fasteners, or materials that could cause damage or staining.
Monitor the exhibition area for environmental fluctuations, such as temperature, humidity, and light, and make necessary adjustments to maintain stable conditions.