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Re: [ARSCLIST] Reel-to-reel preservation supplies?
Hi Christie:
Tip #1 -- be happy they're in good shape and TRANSFER THEM NOW IF YOU HAVE NOT. Tapes that old can
literally just fall apart one day. And of course a digital archive needs much more tending than a
shelf of tapes, so budget accordingly.
As for boxes, I have never seen damage to tapes from boxes, per se. BUT, I have noted that some old
kinds of boxes absorb and retain moisture and grow mold. So replacing boxes is good.
-- Tom Fine
----- Original Message -----
From: "Christie Peterson" <cpeterso@xxxxxxxxx>
To: <ARSCLIST@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Sent: Tuesday, September 26, 2006 4:04 PM
Subject: [ARSCLIST] Reel-to-reel preservation supplies?
Hello, List.
I am working with a large number of reel-to-reel tapes from the 1950s through 1970s. Some are
acetate, but most are mylar/polyester/plastic. The reels range in size from 3 inches to 7 inches,
and almost all are in their original, consumer-grade housing (plastic reels in cardboard boxes).
They're almost all in very good, playable condition, and we'd like to keep it that way for as long
as possible.
Currently, the tapes are stored in their original boxes on end in acid-free Paige-style boxes, but
we would like a more elegant solution that is both better for the tapes (especially the acetate
ones which, I understand, are pH sensitive) and easier for us to organize, since the various sizes
make it difficult to keep them in order inside a large box.
Does anyone have any storage ideas, and does anyone know of a supplier of reels, 'archival' grade
boxes for reels, etc.?
I'm already aware that the tapes should be stored tails out, and in a 'library' or similar
well-packed wind. I've also been reading a bit about acetate tapes, so I'm aware they are subject
to vinegar syndrome, just like acetate film. Any other tips, tho, would be welcome!
Thanks in advance, everyone.
Christie
--
Christie Peterson
Project Archivist, Muskie Archives & Special Collections
Bates College
70 Campus Avenue
Lewiston, ME 04240-6018
(t) 207-753-6918
(f) 207-755-5911