Archival Etiquette
A Guide to Patron Participation in the Preservation of Archival Material

Introduction:

Improper handling is a major factor in the deterioration of archival documents. The following guide, developed by the Archives Branch Conservation Committee of Canada, attempts a tongue-in-cheek illustration of how not to behave while conducting research in an archive. Only the most common archival media have been used as examples; similarly, only the most obvious causes of damage have been illustrated. We hope that this demonstration will promote the idea that everyone who handles archival material is responsible for the preservation of our historical and cultural heritage.

Removal of Material from Boxes: Files should not be removed by the pages themselves. This results in torn pages and dismembered files. Instead, files should be removed by their protective folders.

Researcher Etiquette: Food and drink not only can stain documents but also can attract insects that will harm paper.

Use of Fountain Pens: All pens are messy and are apt to splash or leak or leave residue behind. They may stain fingers and documents. Pencils are much more document-friendly.

Underlining and Marginal Notations: Underlining and marginal notation not only disfigure documents, but they can also change a document's original meaning. Instead, researchers should use a separate notepad to make notations.