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Introduction
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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