Digital Collection Projects

Here are some tips for handling archival materials.

• Please wash your hands before handing archival materials.
• Do not put lotion on your hands prior to using archival materials.
• Carry archival boxes and folders with both hands.
• Remove only one folder at a time from an archival box.
• Open the folder on a table.
• Turn the pages in a folder carefully.
• Don’t rush. Take your time turning pages. Older paper is easily ripped because it becomes brittle over time.
• Do not change the order of the pages in a folder.
• Do not apply stickie notes to any pages in a folder.
• Do not write on any of the pages in an archival folder.
• Acid-free bookmarks will be provided in the Reading Room. Use them to mark which pages you will be digitizing for your assignment.
• You are welcome to take photos of the pages in the folder so you can remember which pages you are choosing to digitize.
• Return the folder to the appropriate box when you have finished using it.
• Take note of which fonds, accession, box, and file number you will be digitizing for your assignment. 

Thank you for helping us preserve these unique materials!