A decision framework for the preservation of transparent papers

Brittleness, discolouration, translucency, and solvent sensitivity are a few of the factors that need consideration when conserving transparent papers. These considerations coupled with the large format and the volume of transparent papers in collections makes effective preservation planning difficult. To address this problem a project was initiated to improve the standard of preservation for transparent papers in The National Archives’ collections. The significant outcomes of this one year project were a framework for preservation decision-making, and complementary tools designed to gather information to support better planning and treatment. The tools include survey questionnaires, a condition rating scale, a colour rating scale, and a database to capture information about the condition and types of transparent papers held by The National Archives.