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Introduction

These Guidelines were developed in response to a study undertaken as part of the National Library of Australia's Cellulose Acetate Project in 2000. This study revealed that many Australian institutions had been unable to assess their collections and recommended that assessment tools be developed to assist with evaluating cellulose acetate materials in collections and the identification of appropriate strategies to deal with these collections.

These Guidelines attempt to provide assistance in assessing collections in terms of:

  • identification of cellulose acetate materials within collections;
  • evaluation of its condition;
  • value; and
  • access requirements.

After collections have been assessed, it becomes possible to develop cost-effective preservation strategies.

While the Guidelines offer broad assistance, each institution will need to assess its collection according to its own priorities.

The assessment of collections is the initial stage in the process of managing cellulose acetate collections (see Appendix 2).

These Guidelines were prepared the National Library of Australia in cooperation with members of the Cellulose Acetate Working Group (Appendix 1).

Disclaimer

While the information contained in these Guidelines has been prepared with due care and skill, findings and best practices in relation to Cellulose Acetate are likely to change over time. Accordingly, the information contained in these Guidelines is for general information only and should not be treated as a substitute for advice of a qualified conservator. While every effort has been made to present information which is accurate, the National Library accepts no responsibility for any damage or liability whatsoever for any damage or loss that is incurred as a result of the information presented in these Guidelines.

Occupational Health and Safety issues need to be considered prior to handling deteriorating cellulose acetate. According to Nishimura, "Exposure to acid vapours can cause eye irritation including conjunctivitis, blepharitis, and keratitis; tearing (lacrimation); irritation of the nose, throat and lungs, pharyngeal edema; skin sensitization, hyperkeratosis (growth of hard skin layers); and dental erosion" (Nishimura, 1995, p.378). People handling the materials should wear gloves, and if acid concentrations are considerable, a respirator may also be necessary. Good ventilation of the storage area is essential.

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