Here's some stuff we saved from the internet re: photo preservation. PRESERVING OLD PHOTOS by DearMYRTLE DearREADERS Our chats on Saturday night centered around archiving old photographs. We discussed reproducing photos via scanners, cameras, video cams and service bureau photocopies. (Kinko's, Office Depot, etc.) We realize that these precious old relics are quite light sensitive and must also be stored away from heat and humidity. Several mentioned that the "magnetic" photo albums are high-acid. Most of us have seen the rapid decline in the life of the photos we diligently filed away in those cheap albums in the 1970's. They need to be avoided at all costs. There have to be better ways. Rather than ol' Myrt always spouting off, I would like to hear from readers about their photo preservation experiences. I will accumulate your ideas and publish an additional article within the week! Additionally, Tom asked me to find this article (on AOL) for you concerning archival products, which I have listed below. These are still the three companies my readers swear by. Also, as soon as Cyndi's List links to Photo Preservation is fixed you may consult her suggestions at: http://www.cyndislist.com/photos.htm Myrt :) Date: 96-01-03 12:55:26 EST From: Gfs julia@aol.com Go, Myrtle, Go!! Would you address acid-free materials usage in your photo and document preserving tips?? I know a little, but it is so important, and I would love to know more. Also some tips on companies that sell that kind of supplies at reasonable prices? I would be grateful. Julia DearJULIA, To begin with, I am sure we are becoming increasingly aware of the fragile nature of original documents, photos, old army uniforms, family bibles, quilts, etc. which might come into our possession. As genealogists we understand the need to house these items under optimum conditions in order that future generations might enjoy viewing them. There are several companies out there providing archival storage containers, photo sleeves, acid free paper, de-acidifying formulas, etc. I have ordered products from each of the following firms. Prices of archival products are in the moderate to high range. However, because these products will extend the life of our precious family documents and heirlooms, I consider them reasonable and necessary. 20th Century Plastics (in California) Light Impressions (Rochester, NY) Preservation Emporium (Texas) There are other companies which handle these types of products. When I hear of them from others, I will tack them on to the end of this article for future reference! What do ya say readers? Can you provide us with your favorite companies and preservation ideas? Thanks for the group effort! Myrtle :) Subj: Re: Archival Products - Need your advice....and input Date: 96-01-04 17:40:50 EST From: GFS Judy@aol.com Hi! I have an excellent article from the Journal of American Photography - January 1983 written by Alan Teller called "How Good Pictures Go Bad," which tells how photos deteriorate, the perils and concerns they face and suggestions. He recommends Kodak publication F-30 Preservation of photographs. The Rochester Institute of Technology quarterly PhotographiConservation - 4 issues for $8 (in 1996) and they also sponsor forums on this. Technical Education Center of Graphic Arts, RIT, One Lomb Memorial Dr. PO Box 9887 Rochester, NY 14623. He also recommends Light Impression Corp in Rochester for the archival supplies. The best hint I got from Light Impressions was the acid free tissue paper to slip in the Bible page with ink writing to preserve it and then put the Bible in the acid free box- it is wonderful! Judy Subj: Re: Archival Products - Need your advice....and input Date: 96-01-05 01:55:52 EST From:GFS Vicki@aol.com I just ordered $150 worth of materials, including postage, today from Light Impressions in Rochester, NY. No, I am not rich. ;) I ordered two double-size photo archive kits ($62), three packages of 75 photo envelopes ($16), one pkg of 50 photo sleeves ($14), one album & slip cover ($35), and a 16x20 complete oak frame kit ($23). I ordered double-size photo archive sets 18 months ago and am VERY happy with them. They are easy to use and they hold a LOT of photos. I also like their albums. These are excellent products, but the price prevents me from buying everything I need at once. Oh well... Call 800-828-6216 for a catalog Vicki Have fun climbing your family tree! Myrt :) Editor's Note: Learn how to protect all your fragile family history treasures for future generations! A Preservation Guide: Saving the Past and the Present for the Future by Barbara Sagraves ($6.95 from Ancestry.com) provides specific instructions for storing paper, books, photographs, motion picture film, and textiles. Learn about the care and preservation of sound recordings, video tapes and computer disks, and even how to recover from disasters such as floods and fires. Don't let accumulated family heirlooms deteriorate. A Preservation Guide: Saving the Past and the Present for the Future was written and illustrated by a trained and qualified archivist and conservator.