• Back
to Book Preservation Virtual Exhibit
 |
High humidity and warm temperatures encourage mold
and mildew growth, weakening a book’s structure and appearance,
as well as posing a health hazard. To prevent an outbreak, the Research
Center maintains a temperature below 72 degrees Fahrenheit, 50% relative
humidity, and adequate air circulation. New acquisitions are checked
for active fungi and separated from the main collection if necessary. |
 |
 |
The reading room’s floor-to-ceiling windows
frame a beautiful view of trees, hillside, and sky; however, sunlight
can fade covers and darken pages. Therefore, other than a small reference
section, Research Center holdings remain in a windowless stacks area.
Because fluorescent lights also emit damaging ultraviolet radiation,
UV filters should cover light fixtures. |
 |
 |
The Museum’s Integrated Pest Management Program
seeks to prevent infestations from occurring without relying on dangerous
insecticides or poisons. Traps monitor the number and types of insects
present in the stacks area. Other preventative measures include cleaning
regularly, storing books off the floor, and inspecting new books before
adding them to the collection. |
 |
|
|
