Why these picks
Saving old pages is a constant fight against time. Every magazine we pick up is slowly changing. Sometimes the change is slow, but other times we make it worse without knowing. This week, our network shows us how the right tools and the right air can make or break a collection.
These stories connect the dots between how things were made and how they fall apart. We start with the science of ink, then look at a big mistake people make with storage, and end with the craft of old-school printing. It's a look at the physical side of our archives. Ever notice how an old book has that specific smell? That is actually the sound of the paper breaking down, so we have to be smart to stop it.
Stories worth your time
The Ink Detectives: How Science is Proving Where Your History Really Came From
This piece shows how experts look at the chemicals in a drop of ink to find out where a document was born. It is a great look at why the physical makeup of a page matters just as much as the words written on it. Understanding where your magazine started helps you know how to keep it safe. Source: querytrailhub.com.Read more here.
Why Plastic Bags are Ruining Your Heirloom Gown
While this story is about bridal wear, the rules for storage are exactly the same for our paper collections. It explains how trapping air and moisture inside plastic can destroy delicate fibers. If you are keeping your old magazines in common grocery bags, you might be hurting them. Source: brideliving.com.Read more here.
The Quest for the Perfect Pear Wood Block
To save a printed page, you have to know how it was made in the first place. This article looks at the work that goes into carving wood blocks for printing. It helps us understand the pressure and the types of wood used, which explains why some old illustrations still look so clear today. Source: seekdiscoveryhub.com.Read more here.
