How to Protect Your Rare Maps and Manuscripts

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Handle them carefully.

   A lack of care when handling old manuscripts is the most prevalent cause of their damage, often resulting in wear and tears, worn-out images, creases and stains.
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   Step 2: Don't handle the paper with unwashed hands.

   Oils and salts in your perspiration may damage the paper and leave difficult stains. ,,,, Each of these can have a detrimental effect on the paper.
   
   Ideally, your storage space should have a maintained humidity of 35-55 percent, with a temperature of 60-75 degrees. ,, Here, each piece should be stored in a folder or sleeve made from 100% acid-free paper. , Again, the tube should be constructed from acid-free materials, or protected with Mylar. , Fluorescent lights are also harmful, and UV filters should be used wherever possible. ,,,
   - but it is most important that it protects your collectibles. , Look out for features such as 100% acid free conservation mat boards, reversible-mounting adhesives, and ultraviolet light filtering glazing. ,, Check for signs of mildew and insects, and fading or yellowing of the paper.
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   Step 3: Always handle your rare maps a manuscripts with two (clean) hands and never handle them by the edges

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   Step 4: particularly if tears are already evident.

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   Step 5: Prepare a clean viewing surface on which to enjoy your collection

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   Step 6: with no liquids

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   Step 7: ink pens or other messy objects nearby.

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   Step 8: Avoid any use of paper clips

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   Step 9: staples post-it notes or other potentially damaging stationery items.

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    Step 10: Don't store your collection in a space where there are extreme changes in temperature or humidity.

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    Step 11: Avoid anywhere frequented by insects or rodents!

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    Step 12: Maps and manuscripts should generally be stored flat

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    Step 13: either in a shallow drawer or acid-free box.

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    Step 14: If the artifact is too large to store flat

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    Step 15: then carefully roll it into a large diameter tube.

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    Step 16: Keep your maps and manuscripts away from strong direct or reflected sunlight

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    Step 17: as this will fade the colors and worsen the deterioration of the paper.

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    Step 18: Don't display your collection in spaces prone to damp - say

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    Step 19: a bathroom or basement or outside surface - as excess humidity will also damage the paper.

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    Step 20: To frame your maps or manuscripts

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    Step 21: it is better to employ someone who is trained in proper framing techniques.

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    Step 22: Proper framing should be superficially artistic - after all

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    Step 23: your collection is supposed to be enjoyed!

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    Step 24: Be sure that the frame is sealed

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    Step 25: and that materials included in your frame are of the highest quality.

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    Step 26: The frame of your map or manuscript should be periodically inspected for any problems which can damage the artifact.

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    Step 27: Make sure that the dust cover is intact

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    Step 28: and that the bumpers and hanging mechanisms of the frame are secure.

Detailed Guide

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