2 messages.-------------------------------Johnnie
 
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    :  Tue, 29 Aug 1995 18:45:26 +0100
    :  [log in to unmask]
       :  Re: Badly creased maps
 
 
     About those badly creased maps, I wholeheartedly agree with the
     person who said EEEK! at the thought of wetting the maps. NEVER
     try anything like this yourself. The potential for damage--and
     types of damage you never even expected--is much too great. Any
     type of humidity treatment must be done by experts.
 
     You don't mention how brittle the paper is. This is probably the
     most important factor in determining how much you can do on your
     own. If the paper is so brittle that it will break along the
     creases when opened, leave the maps where they are and call in an
     expert when you have the funds. If they don't break, then just
     flatten them out carefully on a large surface, protect the top of
     the pile with something like a large folder or cardboard (larger
     than the maps), and place some heavy things (i.e., dictionaries,
     etc) evenly on top. In a few days they should be flat enough.
 
     The idea about encapsulating isn't bad, as it is generally the
     map on top that is most vulnerable, but that assumes you have the
     necessary facilities. You can do something simple such as buying
     mylar L-velopes (sealed on two sides) and placing a map in that
     (available from conservation suppliers such as University
     Products). But full scale encapsulation also requires chemical
     treatment of the maps, and that is best left to an expert.
 
     Your problem is not unusual or especially complex (depending on
     the condition of the paper). Just be careful and stop if what
     you're doing looks like it might damage the maps. Staff in map
     libraries across the globe are flattening maps everyday.
 
     *****************************************************************
     April Carlucci           [log in to unmask]
     Map Library
     The British Library
     London
     *****************************************************************
 
 
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    : "Judith Scurfield" <[log in to unmask]>
            :  State Library of Victoria
    :          Tue, 29 Aug 1995 10:09:05 +1000
       :       Re: Badly creased maps
 
 
Debbie,
           I would reiterate what Ellen Crosby  has to say. The maps
probably do need dampening and drying before integrating with the
nice flat maps but you should get advise and a show and tell session
from a conservation dept near you! You also need SPACE as the maps
can only be dried in small weighted piles. Anyway have fun!
           Estelle at this address in australia