The use and restoration of papers for archival preservation: Case study of National Taiwan Library

Abstract

Background. There is significant progress in preservation and restoration of archives in various countries worldwide. And associated management technology specifications had been established. Archives Act of Taiwan (R.O.C.) was issued on 25th Dec. 1999. It was a very important event for preservation and restoration of archives. The word “Preservation” denotes activity with respect to collection of library, archives, and museum. Workers of cultural relic preservation and restoration must realize the threat regarding the damage and deterioration of data from which library and archives are suffering. Objectives. (1) Realize the importance to know the characteristics and specifications of papers for preservation and restoration of archives; (2) Realize the types and properties of papers for preservation and restoration of archives in Taiwan; (3) Realize the papers and properties used by National Taiwan Library for preservation and restoration of archives. Methods.The research design of this paper adopted literature analysis and case study methods. Book Hospital, National Taiwan Library was chosen as object of study in an attempt to finding out the most eligible papers and their characteristics for preservation and restoration of archives. Two steps of literature discussion and sample selection (non-random) were included. Selection of papers was made between two systems of conventional papermaking industry in Taiwan and imported acid-free papers, and samples of study were found. Last, a data preservation theory was established according to properties of papers. The theory was compared with existing documents to find similarities and differences as the basis to modify the initial theory established. In the end of paper, conclusion and suggestion were proposed. Results. (1) Use acid-free papers with low lignin content; (2) Use bast fiber papers with longer fibers; (3) Use papers made from virgin pulp instead of recycled papers made from recycled pulp to restore archives; (4) Appropriately use alkaline papers to neutralize acid archives papers. Contributions. Urge archives personnel to conduct preventive operation of archival preservation in order to maintain the storability and durability of paper archives. This research also provides various units with paper conditions used for preservation and restoration of archives.