Discusses a draft report issued by the Task Force on Digital Archiving, formed by the Research Libraries Group and the Commission on Preservation and Access, that considered how to ensure continued access to records stored in digital electronic form. Topics include reformatting obsolete materials; challenges with digital objects; and cost…

Reports on an international survey of the activities of 13 institutions and projects that employ or are exploring strategies to preserve authentic electronic records. Topics include preservation techniques; selection for preservation; staffing configurations; cost modeling; access to preserved records; and policymaking. Appendices include…

Explores the advantages and disadvantages of using color microforms. The types of color film are described, and problems of fading and the cost effectiveness of using color are discussed. (6 references) (MES)

Presents results of a study of book deterioration and loss based on a random sample of monographs from Ohio libraries published between 1851-1939, and discusses national preservation efforts such as microfilming. Tables show the sample's (1,935 volumes) physical condition, and the sample's (872 titles) physical condition and availability. (JMV)

Discussion of paper manufacturing processes and their effects on library materials focuses on the promotion of alkaline "permanent" paper, with less acid, by Canadian library preservation specialists. Standards for paper acidity are explained; advantages of alkaline paper are described, including decreased manufacturing costs; and…

Discusses three methods for the preservation of the intellectual content of deteriorating paper materials--photocopying, microforms, and electronic digital technologies. Topics addressed include selection, preparation procedures, standards, bibliographic control, obsolescence of technologies, costs and user fees as possible deterrents to access to…

Reports on a 1986-87 study of the value, storage conditions, use, and management of district records in Pakistan. Possible solutions to some of the problems identified are analyzed. Recommendations include relocation of records, microfilming, and development of records management and public access policies. Several immediate actions are also…

Presents a checklist of more than 150 standards that have been identified by the Society of American Archivists (SAA) Task Force on Archival Standards as applicable to the preservation of archives and manuscripts. The organizations that developed the standards are described, and increased archival participation in the standards development process…

Discusses problems associated with mold growth at the University of Oklahoma libraries and describes the results of using chlorine dioxide in aqueous and gaseous forms. Highlights include toxicity compared to other preservation treatments; environmental controls; and explanations of a preference for the use of a self-activating gas packet.…

Provides an introduction to the problem of the aging of paper and the conservation techniques that currently are being employed in paper preservation. (MKR)

This abstract explains a planned panel discussion on the InterPARES (International Research on the Preservation of Authentic Records in Electronic Systems) project that was designed to conduct systematic research into the problem of preserving authentic electronic records over time and to research electronic records management and preservation.…

Discusses the fact that paper and microfiche materials remain a substantial part of most federal document collections and suggests ways to identify rare and unique documents that need to be preserved. Describes preservation activities and options and considers whether digitization is a good alternative. (LRW)

Discusses the importance of proper lighting in spaces dedicated to reading and computer use, such as libraries. Topics include glare and reflection; contrast; shadows; damage to paper and bindings from light; aesthetic issues; different categories of lighting; types of fixtures; and achieving a balance by varying lighting and fixtures. (LRW)

Discusses a shift in focus of archives from storage to access, which changes the views of archival thinking. Topics include the paradigm shift to access, including a new user orientation; access and preservation; appraisal; intrinsic value; archival theory; and relevance for electronic records. (LRW)

Highlights some of the skills and technological advances that have changed the way special collections are preserved in reference to two approaches: item-level conservation and collections conservation. Discusses mechanical paper splitting; computer imaging and mechanization; mass deacidification; controlling temperature, humidity, pests, and…