Copy of Preservation Guidelines for Circulating Branch Libraries

Materials used in exhibition should meet high standards of preservation, especially when those materials are in direct contact with items. 

Be aware that different materials may react badly when placed in close proximity to one another (for example wool and metal items).  Please consult conservation on new materials used in display.

Safe materials for display may include:

• wood that is aged, pressure treated, and/or kiln dried.  Wood should be sealed before use to prevent off-gassing and cured for two months.
• low VOC paints and finishes, such as water-based polyurethane.  Paints need to be cured for two months before use.
• low VOC adhesives.
• paper or cardboard that is 100% cotton or that is rated as acid- and lignin-free.
• inert polyester fabrics or unbleached cotton or linen.
• glass and Plexiglas.
• inert plastics such as polyester, polypropylene, polyethylene, etc.  If exhibiting 3D items, consult conservation on the plastics used.
• metals may only be used after they have been tested to determine if they will react adversely with other materials.

In general, the libraries do not frame items for display.  However, some libraries have experienced donations, etc. that include wall art.  This art should be carefully considered and appropriately framed.  When framing art for the libraries, the following should be considered when matting and framing:

• The museum board used should be 100% cotton or a board that contains no lignin.
• Mount art on paper on the backboard as opposed to the reverse side of the window.  Use archival paper hinges rather than adhesive directly on the art piece.
• Ensure that the glazing is not in contact with the item.
• Ensure that frame spacers are non-acidic and chemically stable (inert polyester).
• Glazing should filter 90% of UV light (and changed out regularly as UV film loses its filtering power overtime).
• Avoid acrylic glazing with friable media like pastels, charcoal drawings, etc. as acrylic carry a static charge that will damage the media.
• If the item has historical glass as the original glaze, a double-glazing system can be used--sandwiching the UV-filtering glaze in between the historic glass and the art piece.
• If the frame is made of wood, the wood should be two inches away from the art on all sides.
• The backing layer should be an all-paper, lignin-free board.
• A moisture barrier may be inserted between backing sheets or attached to the backing frame for added humidity protection.
• The frame should be deep enough to accommodate all the layers plus leave airspace along the walls.