Conservation of library and archive collections is significantly advanced with the help of stable, protective enclosures. For unbound materials in particular, protective enclosures create a micro-environment that is easier to control than a large room. It is important, however, to ensure that the enclosures be purchased from a reputable vendor and that they are manufactured from chemically stable materials with a high pH. Objects stored in enclosures made from highly acidic materials will deteriorate faster than normal.

Enclosures form micro-environments for controlling humidity and insect infestation and for protecting against environmental damage such as particulates and fires through the use of dessicants, and insects through the use of mild insect repellents. In general, enclosures should be made from board and paper, not wood and ferrous metal. There is a growing use of plastic, some of which is not suitable for archival storage.

Click on the links below to learn more about stabilization and housing.

1. Enclosure materials
2. Housing paper
3. Housing photographs
4. Housing motion picture film
5. Housing books
6. Housing sound recordings
7. Housing microform