Water is the number one risk to archival materials. Leaks in the stacks, floods, and even excess humidity in the air can diminish or end the lifespan of a document. Controlling humidity levels, safeguarding stacks, and preparing for worst case scenarios are vital to protecting the cultural objects in our care.
Not only can they destroy materials, but they can encourage the growth of microfauna! Mildew, mold, and fungi are persistent challenges in special collections. Once an item becomes impacted by microflora, there is no way to permanently fix it. One can only stabilize and hold back the further growth of more flora. Common solutions include: Isolation, freezing, and archival-quality vacuuming.
Flooded Archives Stack, August 2020
Following a torrential storm, the archives in Aquinas Hall experienced a massive flood. Curators rushed through the impacted area and staged all the waterlogged boxes in a dry area for triaging. Over 100 boxes were hit with the leak, but quick action and protective storage materials prevented any items from being lost.
Water-Damaged Photographs, 1950s (Archbishop Martin J. O’Connor Papers)
These images arrived at the archives warped and stuck together - the result of a water leak decades prior. Notice the warping and blotches along the image, and the upper corner reveals that the image is stuck to another photo as a result of water damage.
Mold-damaged Books
These volumes - part of the Rare Books collection - show the lingering effects of mold infestation. Unfortunately, one mold begins to grow on an object, it is impossible to permanently remain. One can only manage its spread and neutralize it.