What kinds of repair and storage materials are appropriate for use with library collections?
Supplies for library collections should be acid free, chemically stable, sturdy, and non-damaging to library materials. Select storage folders that are acid free at the time of manufacture. Lignin-free materials will remain non-acidic for longer than materials that contain lignin. Buffered materials may be appropriate for storing paper materials such as newspaper clippings, but should be avoided for photographs as the buffering agents may cause deterioration. The only appropriate plastics to use are polyester (Mylar), polypropylene, and polyethylene. Never use polyvinyl chloride (PVC) because it is extremely unstable and gives off harmful acids as it deteriorates. Acceptable adhesives include polyvinyl acetate (PVA), wheat starch paste, and methylcellulose. Never use Elmer\’s Glue or rubber cement.
