Preserving Archives & Manuscripts

by Mary Lynn Ritzenthaler

The authoritative resource for archivists, manuscript curators, and other responsible for the preservation of archives, manuscripts, and historical collections. It covers the wide range of materials found in such holdings and addresses practical means of implementing preservation programs. The emphasis is on integrating preservation and archival management with a focus on storage, safe handling, and environmental issues. Many illustrations and extensive appendices complement the text.

Genres: Nonfiction, Library Science, Professional Development, Reference

521 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 1993

Reviews

[Colin Post · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an incredibly thorough resource on archival preservation, in particular for analog materials. In addition to in-depth coverage of various preservation methods and considerations, Ritzenthaler discusses preservation from an overview perspective, including preservation theory and history and developing a preservation program and policy.

The book is a bit dense and functions more as a reference work, but highly recommended for anyone interested in archival preservation.

[J.J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very good foundational work on preserving many different formats. Some dated info but overall a needed work for any repository.

[Emily]

Read the second edition

[Kate · Rating 3 out of 5]

Makes a good reference book but tedious to read through.

[Margot Note]

Reading the second edition for a Journal of Academic Libraries review.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very helpful but definitely a reference source. I was reading it cover to cover for the ACA exam and had a hard time finishing it.

[Karin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great information, but so condescendingly written that I can't say I really enjoyed it.

[Penelope]

(class reading for Preserving Information Resources)