Home >> Collecting >> Other Collecting

How to Preserve Old Letters

Paper items such as letters are fragile by nature. but can be protected and preserved, according to The American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works, or AIC. Such items "are best preserved in [moderate temperatures] that are comfortable for people," says Marie E. Culver, MA, paper conservator and Conservation Specialist for the New York State Archives, Albany, New York.

Things You'll Need

Buffered folders or boxes
Scanner

Instructions

- 1
  Store your letters in a safe environment. Culver advises storing them in a location with a moderate temperature below 72 degrees Fahrenheit, and a relative humidity between 30 and 50 percent. "Avoid basement storage because it can foster mold growth," she says, "Also, it's best to avoid constant display of a letter you want to preserve because exposure to light can fade inks and darken paper."
- 2
  Scan the letters and handle copies rather than the original. Culver says, "Then you can create a digital image which you can share."
- 3
  Bring the letters to a paper conservator. If your letter is brittle or torn, it might be difficult to handle or flatten without damaging it. The AIC can recommend a skilled, professional paper conservator. Alternatively, you can contact a museum and ask if someone there can recommend a paper conservator to treat your letter, Culver suggests.

Other Collecting