Conservation: Materials and tools

Summary

In this informative tutorial, Paulina, a conservator at the British Library, outlines essential tools and materials for safely conserving collection items during digitization. She emphasizes the importance of using appropriate brushes, spatulas, and interleaving materials to protect delicate surfaces. Techniques for flattening objects and safely transporting materials are discussed, alongside the significance of personal protective equipment. The video serves as a resource for best practices in preserving collections for future generations, making it valuable for anyone involved in digitization and conservation projects.

Takeaways

• 📚 Proper preservation techniques are essential for safeguarding collection items during digitization.
• 🔧 Clear perspex pointers are recommended for holding book pages in place without obscuring text.
• 🧹 Use soft-bristled brushes made from natural hair to effectively remove dust and dirt from delicate surfaces.
• 🪄 Thin, flexible spatulas made of metal or bamboo are ideal for separating stacked pages without causing damage.
• 📏 Bone folders, either natural or synthetic, should have smooth surfaces for unfolding creases in paper.
• 📄 A variety of interleaving materials, including newspapers and conservation-grade blotters, are necessary to prevent sticking.
• 📦 Pressing boards must be smooth and similar in size to the items being flattened to avoid damage.
• 🚚 Trolleys and trays facilitate the safe transportation of collection items to and from workspaces.
• ⚖️ Weights can be used to apply even pressure during flattening, and custom weights can be created using sealed containers filled with sand.
• 🛡️ Personal protective equipment like nitrile gloves and face masks is crucial to protect both the items and the conservators during handling.

Q & A

What is the primary goal of conservation in digitization projects?

The primary goal is to preserve collection items safely to ensure they can be digitized and enjoyed by future generations.

What type of pointers are recommended for holding pages during image capture?

Clear perspex pointers are recommended to avoid obscuring the page in the image.

What should be avoided when selecting brushes for cleaning collection items?

Hardened springy brushes should be avoided as they can damage delicate surfaces.

Why is it important to use interleaving materials?

Interleaving materials prevent items from sticking to each other or to pressing boards during conservation work.

What are some alternatives to commercial pressing boards?

Wooden, glass, or synthetic boards of a similar size to the item needing flattening can be used as alternatives.

How can weights be effectively used in the preservation process?

Weights can be used to apply pressure when flattening objects on pressing boards and to hold open pages or smaller items.

What type of personal protective equipment is recommended?

Disposable nitrile gloves and face masks are recommended, especially when handling items affected by mold or deterioration.

What materials can be used to support bound volumes during digitization?

Thick papers, cradles, and foam pieces can be used to stabilize bound volumes and protect the spine.

What should be considered when selecting supports for digitization?

The size and shape of the items being digitized should be considered to choose appropriate supports.

Where can one find more resources on digitization and conservation?

More resources can be found on the Endangered Archives Program website at eap.bl.uk.