Bookkeeper^® Users Group Synopsis (Page 3 of 3)

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Cataloging and documenting deacidified materials
Cataloging and documenting what items and collections are being deacidified were two fundamental issues discussed by the Group. The perception is that local collections of distinction are the most commonly deacidified collections. Despite several examples to the contrary among the Users Group, national and international collections are perceived as secondary to important local collections. The questions remain whether there are benefits to deacidify duplicate materials at different institutions and how to create a centralized record of deacidified materials.

One attendee mentioned the need for matching invoices to specific treated items. Bob Strauss said he would look into a more detailed invoicing process to address this issue.

Selection of collections appropriate for deacidification
The breadth of materials deacidified by users included monographs, journals, manuscripts and unbound materials, among others. Maryland has deacidified journals, including some with loose issues. Yale has undertaken the process with its Burmese collection, which includes monographs and serials.

An area of interest is in how to deacidify unprocessed manuscript collections, some containing fasteners and paper clips. Dagmar Getz (University of Minnesota) said they systematically pored through originals of its Kautz Family YMCA Archives before shipping them off to PTLP. She added that the University is comfortable with deacidifying unprocessed manuscript collections. Bob Strauss said PTLP has completed a new tracking system for processed and unprocessed manuscripts PTLP has deacidified hotel registration records, posters, maps and other non-standard formats. Depending on the size of the item, PTLP will adopt the process to ensure effective treatment. If material is unsuitable for PTLP’s normal treatment methods, it can be treated in other ways, such as individual spraying.

Evaluating process results
Getz said the Kautz Family YMCA Archives deacidified approximately 10,000 monographs and journals from its print collection, and more than 3,000 linear feet of records in 1999. She noted that the entire collection is regarded as an artifact, and the YMCA has been exceedingly supportive of the preservation process. Even so, the first shipment of materials to Preservation was "like sending children to camp. You stand, wave and hope they come back." Both Getz and Ken Harris praised the handling of deacidified materials upon return to their respective institutions.

The only process result mentioned by more than one attendee is the "dry feeling" on some treated materials. Others mentioned that this feeling dissipates over time. An unexpected pleasant byproduct of the Bookkeeper process is that some materials appear to emerge cleaner.

Participants raised the importance of consortia to concentrate deacidification efforts, and share experiences and knowledge. PTLP already has consortial agreements with CIRLA and CIC, both of which have benefited by reducing costs and sharing information about what is being deacidified. In addition to the cost savings of such consortia, participants remarked on the need for deacidification-specific consortia to maintain a dialogue about current best practices.

Technical briefing
PTLP President Jim Burd concluded the Users Group with a briefing on relevant research and technical issues. He encouraged attendees to view PTLP as a resource and partner, and stressed the need for ongoing communication of deacidification issues and concerns.

According to Burd, most research conducted thus far has dealt with the effectiveness of deacidification. This research has yielded highly favorable results, verifying that deacidification extends the life of paper. Other research focal points have centered on media types, pH sensitivity and retention of adhesive strength. Burd said PTLP has not found any inks that are soluble. Studies yield no odors or toxicity of treated materials; an alkaline buffer is the only leave-behind on treated materials.

Burd reviewed other studies, including a study by a conservation research institute in Switzerland. A Getty Research Intern at The National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa is investigating the effects of Bookkeeper on textiles. In general, these independent studies support the effectiveness of Bookkeeper.

In the future, PTLP will continue its commitment to conduct and support ongoing research related to deacidification. It is sponsoring studies by independent research agencies and conservators. Among those research topics are aging effects on leather and on iron gall ink; reduced temperature accelerated aging testing and the prompt effects on paper strength and prompt effects of works of art on paper.

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