If eyes are the “windows to the soul,” surely family photos are the heartbeat of memories and deserve to be handled with care. I recently talked with genealogist and author Amy Johnson Crow about simple ways to preserve our treasured family photos in this interview
Read the show notes at AmyJohnsonCrow.com where Amy and I discuss the importance of caring for family photos, and share tips on storing and labeling old snapshots and prints. Hint: avoid ballpoint pen.
We also talk about the importance of using acid-free, lignin-free archival products. Finding true archival products can be confusing because the term archival doesn’t have official standards. The best way to insure you are purchasing truly archival storage containers is to order from reputable archival suppliers. Look for items that are labeled “acid-free” and “lignin free.” Buy plastic sleeves and enclosures that have passed the P.A.T., or Photographic Activity Test. This international standard test evaluates the quality of plastic photographic storage materials. Mylar and polyester are two excellent choices for plastic photo storage materials.
My top choices for photo storage include items available from Gaylord Archival Supplies, the same company that provides preservation storage for libraries and archives nationwide:
- Acid-free, lignin free letter size file folders
- Flip-top document box to hold file folders vertically
- Deep lid print box for storing oversize photos
- 3 mil Polyester envelopes
These items are available through Amazon, or order directly from Gaylord Archival and get free shipping with my exclusive code FAMCURATOR.
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