Safe handling guidance for archives

Why handling matters

Physical handling of original documents can pose a significant risk to their long-term survival. Repeated handling accelerates deterioration of materials such as paper, parchment, and wax seals. With proper precautions, we can slow this process and protect these valuable items.

General rules

Do:

• Have clean, dry hands when handling documents.
• Use nitrile/vinyl gloves when handling certain items, especially photographs.
• Use reading aids to support items.
• Turn pages carefully.

Do Not:

• Wet fingers to turn pages or run fingers along text—use a sheet of paper instead.
• Place items on top of others.
• Use pens in proximity to documents. 

Specific material care

• Paper & Parchment: Lift loose/single sheets fully, never by corners alone. Avoid shuffling or dragging items, lift them instead. Use clear archival sleeves for support and to protect against oils from fingers. For larger-sized flat paper items, which require support, use a foam pad.
• Wax Seals: Rest seals on foam pads and turn them with the document.
• Parchment Rolls: Re-roll as you read and use weights to hold the roll in place.
• Photographs: Never touch the image surface. Keep in polyester sleeves. Handle by edges or with nitrile/vinyl gloves. Keep away from light as much as possible.
• Books: Use book cradles for support when reading. Do not open flat, stack open books, or place face down. Turn pages from the top outer corner. Carry large volumes with both hands.