Im looking for good ways to preserve/store photoalbums as well as loose photo's and was wondering if there are members around with good ideas?
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You may want to spend some time on the WAF and conduct a search on conservation postings. If you are looking to purchase items (boxes) to store your treasures in. There are a few things that you may want to consider first before you put your treasures in an acid free boxs.
First and foremost is being sure to keep the humidity in control 24/7-365. Humidity is enemy number 1. Both mold and mildew can be harmful to stored items and can in extreme cases be deadly. Air circulation is also important as well. That means buying a good room fan and buying a humidity gauge and maybe a dehumidifier if you live in any type of a humid area. There seem to be a long term debate on humidity levels in a room. In written articles on humidity you find reports stating humidity can range from 50%-60%. On a warm sunny 80 degree day that a lot of moisture in the air. Most museums that I freelance at are set at 43%-45%. Anything over 48% humidity long term can, and will cause severe problems for paper, photographs, leather, medals, and fabric.
It’s not advised to place a dirty photo album or a dirty photo in an acid free box. Bring in a soiled item and dropping it a box can be bait for silverfish, moths, and other insects that will feast on them. A gentle brushing off of an item is a good start. I use a natural hair brush. Wearing cotton or vinyl gloves when handling your items body oils and body perspiration can damage items. Just washed hands do not always remove body oils from you skin, and scented soaps can leave behind a film. A lot of people use glove to handle all items not just paper items (I recommend using the gloves when handling historical items). If you have single photos that maybe in a fragile state storing them in an acid free Mylar sleeve is a good idea.
I know that this may sound extreme to most people, but this is one method in storing artifact for future generations to come. A lot of people do not agree or understand consecration issues and that fine. Your treasures will last longer if you store them properly.
Below is a list of companies that are repeatable and sell conservation items. If nothing else it’s a good idea to see what ways to store item in. These are just a few companies that have been around for a number of years and they sell great products. There are many more companies as well. Just be sure to buy acid free items if you want to go this way to keep your items in.
Of course these are your treasures to do with as you see fit.
Yes, these are US companies, some sell overseas and there are conservation companies in your area.
http://www.universityproducts.com/
http://www.talasonline.com/
http://www.gaylord.com/
http://www.hollingermetaledge.com/
http://www.lightimpressionsdirect.com/
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