How Can I Take Care of My Own Memories?

A 160-year-old letter written in Erindale

Do you have treasures in your attic – old newspapers, photographs, letters and diaries? Even if they’re not as old as the material in the Region of Peel Archives, they are still important and will become increasingly valuable as time goes by – only if they are stored properly.

Keep your paper treasures dry, flat and in a dark space. Basements and attics are not good places because the temperature and humidity levels tend to fluctuate and can be destructive. Folded newspapers and other items generally discolour and weaken along the fold lines first; so store these items flat. If you just have a few things, purchase a couple of sheets of acid-free mat board from a framing store and keep your items between the sheets.

All paper, but particularly photographs, are sensitive to light. Have copies made if you want to display them, and keep the originals in a covered box. Old photographs should be identified on the back using pencil.

Another danger to paper and photos is the oil from skin, so handle only by the extreme edges. If you are going to organize your collection, wear a pair of white cotton gloves.

You can always bring your paper treasures into the Archives for a free consultation.

Here are some links for archival quality storage supplies:

• Gaylord Archival Solutions
• Carr McLean