TAGGED Historical Preservation

Of Paper and Permeability

For decades, preservationists have helped protect historic documents, such as centuries-old maps, by placing them in clear envelopes. Enclosing them in these clear envelopes provides mechanical support to help keep these old, brittle treasures from crumbling while also allowing the public to see and sometimes handle them. But paper degradation isn’t a self-contained event, says Patricia McGuiggan.

When the Sky Light’s the Limit

With leaks threatening the books of the 130-year-old George Peabody Library, civil engineer John Matteo and team set out to execute an innovative repair.