2 messages.-------------------------------Johnnie --------------------------------------------------- : 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 ***************************************************************** -------------------------------------------------------------------- : "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