The Rural Voice, 1985-01, Page 27dirt and oil will be transferred to
everything handled. The source of
much of the oil on human hands is
the human nose. It is constantly oily.
We touch it hundreds of times a day.
It is the chief source of natural oil
that keeps our skin soft and pliable.
Human nose oil is one of the most
damaging substances to valuable
things such as photographs, old let-
ters, maps and clippings.
The initial rule of first aid for
history is: wash your hands before
you handle photographs, old papers
and the like. If you forget and touch
your nose, wash your hands again.
In the archives, everyone who
handles old things is given a pair of
white cotton gloves to put on. A lot
of people feel self-conscious about it
at first, but if we are to preserve
things, there is no alternative.
If you insist on handling old things
with clean hands around the house
and office you will be making a great
contribution.
It goes without saying that it is a
risky business to pass photographs
around during a meal at the table.
What is good environment?
The best temperature to keep paper
at is 68 degrees Fahrenheit or 20
degrees Celsius. It is also very healthy
for humans, so keeping things in
rooms with this temperature is ideal.
Therefore, avoid attics or basements
where temperatures vary.
Ideally, the air in a room should
contain 50 points of moisture. To
know this, it is necessary to purchase
a hygrometer. Many hardware stores
sell these for around $10.00. This
would make an excellent gift for a
friend who keeps old things.
Another piece of practical advice is
to store your important papers in the
dark. Keep them in envelopes, or files
or boxes away from the Tight. A closet
shelf or a writing desk with a drawer
are excellent places.
The last word
The last word regarding first aid to
history concerns repairs. The best ad-
vice is: if you don't know how, don't!
Hundreds of valuable things have
been damaged by well-meaning peo-
ple. Never use cellulose tape. Never,
never! Don't attempt repairs. Ask an
archivist or a museum curator.
If you can improve your habits in
only one little way, then reading this
column has been useful. First aid for
history at home is important.
James Anderson
Stratford -Perth Archives
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