RARE CONDITION: PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT FOR RARE BOOK COLLECTIONS

Abstract

It is not uncommon for a university to house its special collections library in the “old” library building. The character of the architecture and the connection with the university’s past often fit with the mission of collecting and preserving rare books, manuscripts, and university archives. A beautiful old library can inspire both librarians and researchers. However, it also can be the downfall of the very collections we treasure. Many older libraries now housing rare and valuable special collections materials have out-of-date and inadequate environmental control systems, if they have any at all. The resulting environmental conditions, particularly wide fluctuations in . . .