Preservation Planning for Historic Collections

FAIN: PG-50237-08

College of Southern Maryland, La Plata (La Plata, MD 20646-2867)
Patricia McGarry (Project Director: May 2007 to September 2009)

The purchase of archival supplies, improvements in lighting, and training for archives staff on proper collection care. The collection documents the history and culture of southern Maryland and includes personal papers, records of businesses and organizations, historic sites, genealogical research files, photographs, maps, artwork, oral histories, newspapers, and ephemera. The archive holds approximately 400 rare books, 6,900 photographs and slides, 820 audiovisual items, and 550 linear feet of manuscripts and documents.

Acting on advice received from a 2005 Survey by Northeast Documents Conservation Center, the Southern Maryland Studies Center (SMSC) will implement several suggested goals that are achievable in the short term. The SMSC will contract with a professional Conservator to develop a preservation plan for individual collections, as well as provide training for staff and volunteers. After this procedure, we will begin to re-house those collections that are at risk for damage. We will also implement solutions to block UV light by installing light blocking filters on fluorescent lighting, and room darkening shades. The shades will also prevent solar heat gain and fluctuations in temperature in the Archive at SMSC.