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Everyone has memories to treasure. And everyone keeps items that they cherish because it was given by someone special or serves as a reminder of a memorable occasion. Some are kept because of its value and worth like jewelries, antique collection, precious gems and heirloom pieces such as old statues, relics, pendants and even old cabinets.
Objects that are made of wood, metal or other solid materials are relatively easier to preserve because they have more mass and would hold up for a longer period of time. They do not normally dissolve or break into pieces easily even when soaked in water. As long as they are not deliberately damaged or dropped and carefully cleaned and placed in a safe place, these items would stay safe and intact.
This is not true, however, in the case of paper. Paper is a very delicate and sensitive material that just a drop of water can damage it and create an irreversible damage. Most people also try to preserve paper and other paper products because many memories are also tucked in every page. A letter expressing the fondest love can be written on a lovely stationery. A birthday greeting card from a friend living in another country surely bridges the gap in time and distance. An invitation to your daughter's wedding provides a journey in time, while you hold her firstborn child. With all these memories and treasured events, it is no wonder that letters, cards, booklets, pamphlets and a lot of other things that are made of paper are being kept.
Thus, it is important that one knows how to preserve paper to guarantee that these treasure of memories would last for a long time. Preservation of paper requires careful storage and safe handling. All these documents would last longer if they are kept in a place where the temperature is not lower or higher than the same temperature that we are comfortable with, about 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It is likewise, necessary for the surroundings to have clean air, right degree of humidity and good circulation. Always remember that high heat and moisture the chemical processes happen faster and this results in brittle and discolored paper.
It is also interesting to note that light can also damage paper. Light that has high proportions of ultraviolet can effect the greatest damage; and this includes the fluorescent and natural day light. Once a paper is damaged through light exposure, the effects are irreversible and continues to aggravate as long as the paper is exposed. It is therefore not advisable to display sensitive materials and documents for a long time.
One way to keep documents and other family papers such as certificates or land titles is to keep them in a folder, box or portfolio that will provide sufficient protection from sunlight, water and dust. This will guarantee that you can always go back to them when you want and when you need them.
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