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Historic Preservation

Scrapbooks

Handling

  • Wash hands thoroughly and use clean, dry gloves when handling scrapbooks to avoid transferring oils, dirt, and moisture to the pages.
  • Support the book properly when opening it, especially if it is bulky or contains delicate or loose items. Avoid stressing the binding or spine, and handle pages with care.
  • Avoid applying pressure or flattening bulky items within the scrapbook, as this can cause damage or distortion.

Environmental Conditions

  • Store scrapbooks in a cool, dry, and stable environment with controlled temperature and relative humidity. Aim for conditions around 65-70°F (18-21°C) and 45-55% relative humidity.
  • Avoid storing scrapbooks in basements, attics, or areas prone to temperature and humidity fluctuations.
  • Protect scrapbooks from exposure to direct light, especially ultraviolet (UV) light, which can cause fading and deterioration. Display items should be rotated periodically to minimize light exposure.

Storage

  • Store scrapbooks upright on shelves or flat in archival boxes designed for their size. Use acid-free folders or archival sleeves to protect individual pages or loose items within the scrapbook.
  • Use archival-quality materials for storage containers, folders, and sleeves. Acid-free and lignin-free options are preferred to minimize the risk of acid migration and yellowing risk.
  • Avoid using adhesives or tapes directly on scrapbook pages, as they can cause staining, degradation, or irreversible damage. If necessary, use archival photo corners or mounting strips to secure items.

Cleaning and Maintenance

  • Regularly inspect scrapbooks for signs of damage, such as loose or detached items, mold, pests, or deterioration. Early detection allows for prompt intervention and prevents further deterioration.
  • Remove surface dust and debris using a soft, clean brush or a low-powered vacuum with a brush attachment. Be gentle and avoid disturbing fragile or loose items.
  • If mold is present, consult a professional conservator for guidance on appropriate mold remediation techniques. Do not attempt to clean mold yourself, as improper handling can spread spores and cause further damage.
  • Repair loose or detached items using conservation-grade materials and techniques. Seek assistance from a professional conservator if repairs require specialized knowledge or skills.

Digitization

  • Consider creating high-resolution digital copies or scans of the scrapbook pages to serve as backups and allow easy access and sharing. Digitization can help minimize handling and potential damage to the original.
  • Store digital copies in multiple locations, ensuring proper backup procedures are in place to safeguard against loss or data corruption.