Magazines present a unique challenge for long-term storage. Most are printed on wood-pulp paper, a lignin-containing material that is acidic. This acidity causes the paper to yellow, become brittle, and disintegrate over time, necessitating specific archival practices to slow chemical deterioration. Effective long-term preservation requires a methodical approach addressing the magazine’s physical condition, the protective materials used, and the ambient storage environment.
Preparing Magazines for Archiving
Before magazines are placed into specialized containers, they must be prepared to ensure no existing damage or contaminants accelerate future decay. First, gently remove any surface dirt or dust using a soft cloth or specialized archival brush, taking care not to abrade the paper surface. The magazine must be entirely flat and completely dry before enclosure, as trapped moisture can lead to mold or mildew growth.
Remove any items that introduce acidity or stress to the paper, such as metal staples, paper clips, rubber bands, or self-adhesive notes. These items can stain and damage the paper structure through chemical reaction or physical pressure. Loose inserts, such as subscription cards or posters, should be removed and stored separately in their own protective enclosures to prevent uneven pressure and distortion.
Handling requires care to prevent the transfer of dirt and oils from hands onto the paper, which causes permanent discoloration and accelerates degradation. Wearing clean cotton or nitrile gloves provides a simple barrier and is standard practice when preparing delicate paper materials.
Selecting Archival-Grade Materials
Selecting the correct materials is necessary, as standard household storage options often contain harmful chemicals that counteract preservation efforts. Storage containers should be acid-free and lignin-free, such as archival document cases or boxes made from buffered corrugated board. These boxes neutralize residual acidity that may off-gas from the magazines, providing a stable microenvironment.
For individual protection, magazines should be placed within protective sleeves made from either polyester film (Mylar) or archival-grade polypropylene. Mylar is preferred for maximum longevity because it is chemically inert and does not contain plasticizers that can migrate and damage the paper. Ensure sleeves are appropriately sized to avoid bending or folding the magazine edges.
To provide structural rigidity and prevent sagging, an acid-free backing board should be placed behind each magazine within its protective sleeve. This backing board helps distribute pressure evenly when magazines are stacked or placed upright. Avoid using standard plastic bins or regular cardboard boxes, as they can compromise the collection’s integrity over time.
Controlling the Storage Environment
The ambient conditions of the storage location greatly influence the long-term chemical stability of the paper fibers. Cooler temperatures, typically below 70°F (21°C), are preferable, as chemical decay reactions accelerate with heat. Avoiding rapid or extreme temperature fluctuations is also important, as these swings cause materials to expand and contract, leading to physical damage.
Humidity must be carefully managed, targeting an ideal relative humidity (RH) range of 30% to 50% for paper preservation. Levels above 60% create a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which rapidly destroy collections and cause irreversible staining. Conversely, excessively dry conditions, below 25% RH, lead to desiccation and embrittlement, making the paper prone to cracking.
The storage area must be protected from all sources of light, especially direct sunlight and fluorescent light, which emit damaging ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV light breaks down chemical bonds in paper and ink, causing fading and accelerating embrittlement. Common storage areas like garages, attics, and basements are unsuitable because they are prone to extreme temperature swings, high moisture, and pest infestations.
Indexing and Access Systems
An effective indexing system ensures materials can be retrieved efficiently without disturbing the collection or physically handling every box. The first step is consistent and clear labeling of the exterior of each archival box, noting the magazine title, date range, and volume numbers. This external information prevents unnecessary opening and searching, minimizing exposure and physical handling.
Creating a corresponding external inventory, such as a spreadsheet or database, allows for quick searching and tracking of the contents. This digital index should mirror the box labels and can include additional details like publication name and issue number. This system prevents loss of information should the physical labels become damaged or illegible.
When arranging the boxes, store them flat or upright on sturdy metal shelving units rather than on the floor. Avoid stacking boxes excessively high, as the weight of the upper boxes can compress and damage the magazines in the lower layers. Proper organization is essential for safeguarding the physical integrity of the stored materials.