Implement a successful conservation programme:

 To implement a successful conservation programme, the staff must know: 

• The nature  of base materials and  manufacturing processes of the library materials. 
• Principles of use of the equipment necessary to use them. 
• The environmental conditions and special storage methods most suited to each form. 
• Methods of cleaning and maintenance handling of each item. 

Preservation is as much a management responsibility as binding. In fact binding is only one aspect of preservation. Preservation includes maintenance of objects in their original condition through retention, proper care and if it is damaged restoration. A pre requisite for successful preservation programme is the need for  clear understanding of materials from which items to be stored  are made: Paper based materials (books, periodicals, etc.), photographs, slides,  microforms, films, video tapes, sound, recording, view discs and computer tapes and disks. Robert Patterson has suggested the following steps for a  successful preservation planning: 

•  Examine the environment in the library and the condition of the collection. 

•  Prepare a disaster plan 

• Examine current practices (binding, handling, processing, repair techniques), recommend changes and ascertain additional requirements to  meet current standards. 

•  Ascertain what professional conservation advice and expertise are available to the library. 

•  Time when  an item needs treatment  beyond the facilities  available in the library or needs to be withdrawn from circulation. 

The greatest enemies of books are dust and dirt. Though airconditioning is the only final solution, regular dusting and routine cleaning would help avoid  the damage. 

Dust and dirt should not be allowed to accumulate on open shelves. Insect, pests can be disposed  off by placing the  book, with leaves opened, in  a warm cupboard containing paradichlorbenzene crystals for about two weeks. Special attention should be given to  old or rare books collection. Ancient  bindings with metal bosses and corners and fine ornamental bindings need  special care. These bindings have to be either protected by loose cloth covers or enclosed in carefully fitted boxes lined with some  soft  material to guard against friction, Apart from careful handling, these material should be supplemented by judicious application of leather preservative where appropriate. This fluid cleanses a great amount of dirt from the old bindings and also enhances the appearances of old  leather as well as retarding deterioration, without harming the skin.