Preservation
Essential library function performed to prolong the life expectancy of collections through activities that address agents of deterioration to protect cultural property. These activities may seek prevention of damage to collections or address existing damage.
Digital Preservation
All activities employed to ensure continued access to digital resources, which have retained properties of authenticity, integrity and functionality. Digital resources may be electronic or “born digital" records created during the day-to-day business of an organization; or the products of digitization projects.
Preservation—Activities that minimize deterioration and damage of items and that prevent loss of informational content.
Conservation—The profession devoted to the preservation of cultural property for the future. Conservation activities include examination, documentation, treatment, and preventive care, supported by research and education.
Restoration—Treatment procedures intended to return cultural property to a known or assumed state, often through the addition of non-original material.
Ensure that the preservation program has a strong assessment component
Specify preservation activities in which the library will engage
Ensure adherence to standards and best practices
Administer space in a preservation-consciousness fashion
Use appropriate archival library supplies and suitable tools
Include some preservation elements in regular library operations (reproduction, services, etc.)
Provide guidelines on selection, location, extent, design, installation and handling of materials for exhibits
Document processes and procedures
Determine whether mending, rebinding or an alternative approach is appropriate
Provide training for staff and users on appropriate handling of library materials.
Careful handing tips by Harvard University Preservation Services
Choose suitable containers for all formats
Select containers made for archival-quality materials
Set priorities for preservation activities
Ensure that collections are properly cataloged/processed
Process materials so that they incur minimal damage
Establish a collaborative relationship with the Facilities Management department
Schedule and conduct a series of building surveys (site survey, environmental survey and housekeeping survey)
Ensure that shelving meets basic preservation standards and guidelines
Conduct collection condition and needs assessment surveys
Make decisions about reformatting materials
Assess the physical condition of materials
Enhance collection condition and need assessment surveys by first inventorying materials
Revise the library catalog/repository to reflect subject specialists’ retention decisions
Use subrogate of rare and/or fragile materials to reduce handling of originals
Migrate media/files to new carriers to avoid obsolescence
Backup computer files regularly on more than one location
Develop a budget for a disaster preparedness and recovery planning process
Identify and implement a series of relevant preventive measures
Delegate authority during an emergency
Maintain a stock of emergency supplies
Monitor library protective systems (sprinklers, fire extinguishers, alarms, etc.)
Establish procedures to follow when theft is suspected or damage discovered
Provide appropriate security for exhibit and storage areas
Understand the library’s environmental systems
Set standards for the library environment
Monitor the library environment
Ensure the environmental systems are well maintained
Supervise housekeeping activities
Protect collection from direct sunlight
Take steps to use incandescent light
Use UV monitor to measure levels of ultraviolet light
Implement a no-food and no—drink policy
Implement and monitor a pest control program
Gaylord Bros.
800-962-9580
www.gaylord.com
Conservation Resources International, Inc.
800-634-6932
www.conservationresources.com
Hollinger Metal Edge
800-634-0491
www.hollingermetaledge.com
University Products
800-628-1912
www.universityproducts.com