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Storage and Preserving of Maps: A Quick Guide

Maps are not just tools for navigation. They are also valuable historical documents. They offer insights into geography, culture, and technological advancements. Preserving and storing maps properly ensures they stay in good condition for future generations. This guide covers the key aspects of preserving and storing maps. It includes environmental control, handling practices, storage approaches, and restoration techniques.

Map Storage White House
White House Map Room

Environmental Control Storage

The environment where maps are stored plays a crucial role in their preservation. Key factors include:

  1. Temperature and Humidity:
    • Ideal temperature: 65-70°F (18-21°C)
    • Relative humidity: 30-50%
    • Avoid fluctuations in temperature and humidity to prevent the expansion and contraction of paper.
  2. Light Exposure:
    • Store maps in a dark environment to prevent fading and degradation caused by ultraviolet (UV) light.
    • If displaying maps, use UV-filtering glass or acrylic and avoid direct sunlight.
  3. Air Quality:
    • Keep good air circulation to prevent mold growth.
    • Use air purifiers to remove pollutants and particulate matter.

Handling Practices

Proper handling minimizes the risk of physical damage to maps:

  1. Clean Hands:
    • Always handle maps with clean, dry hands or wear cotton gloves.
  2. Support:
    • Provide adequate support when handling maps, especially large or fragile ones.
    • Use both hands and avoid holding maps by the edges.
  3. Workspace:
    • Use a clean, flat, and stable surface when examining maps.
    • Keep food, drinks, and sharp objects away from the workspace.
Metal Map Storage Cabinet
Metal Map Storage Cabinet

Storage Techniques

Choosing the right storage method is essential for long-term preservation:

  1. Flat Storage:
    • Best for most maps, especially those with minimal folds.
    • Use acid-free folders or encapsulate maps in polyester film to protect them.
    • Store in flat file cabinets or archival boxes.
  2. Rolled Storage:
    • Suitable for oversized maps.
    • Roll maps around a large-diameter acid-free tube to avoid tight creases.
    • Wrap the rolled map in acid-free paper and store it in a sturdy tube or box.
  3. Folding:
    • Avoid folding maps whenever possible as it creates weak points.
    • If folding is necessary, ensure folds are along natural lines and use acid-free paper inserts to prevent creasing.

Restoration Techniques

When maps are damaged, professional restoration can help stabilize and repair them:

  1. Cleaning:
    • Surface cleaning with a soft brush or specialized cleaning pads can remove dirt and grime.
    • Avoid using water or solvents without professional guidance.
  2. Flattening:
    • Humidification chambers can gently reintroduce moisture to relax creases and folds.
    • Professional conservators use weight and heat techniques to flatten maps.
  3. Repair:
    • Tears and holes can be repaired using acid-free, archival-quality materials.
    • Professional conservators use Japanese tissue and wheat starch paste for delicate repairs.
  4. Deacidification:
    • Acidic paper can be deacidified using alkaline solutions to neutralize acids and extend the map’s lifespan.
Wooden Map Storage Cabinet
Wooden Map Storage Cabinet

Digital Preservation

Digital preservation complements physical preservation by creating a digital copy of the map:

  1. Scanning:
    • Use a high-resolution scanner to capture detailed images of the map.
    • Store digital files in multiple formats (e.g., TIFF, JPEG) and locations to ensure accessibility and redundancy.
  2. Metadata:
    • Include metadata such as the map’s title, creator, date, and any restoration work performed.
    • Metadata helps in cataloging and retrieving digital files.
  3. Access and Sharing:
    • Digital copies can be shared online, reducing the need for physical handling.
    • Online platforms and databases can provide wider access to historical maps.

Proper preservation and storage of maps require attention to environmental control. Careful handling is also important. Maps need appropriate storage methods. Professional restoration is necessary when required. Implement these practices to ensure that maps remain valuable resources for research. They will also be valuable for education and enjoyment for years to come. Digital preservation further enhances accessibility. It reduces the physical strain on original documents. This makes it an essential part of modern conservation efforts.