Our team engages in a multifaceted process for archive and special collections. This library consulting work involves conducting space use analysis, following best practices, and providing training in AI-Library development. Archival work actively contributes to sustaining library resources. Special collections and archive strategies play a crucial role in enriching special collections. Despite their potential value, many materials, including books, are often discarded or neglected. It is essential for organizations to recognize the worth of these items and build a dynamic special collections and archive AI program.
We develop strategies to improve archives and research facilities. Our implementation programs support best practices in restoration, special collections, and storage techniques. Additionally, our work enables special libraries to reintroduce collection strategies that enhance digital use. Basically, we collaborate with libraries on fundraising and building strategies, leveraging the value of pre-existing resources.
Book preservation
Library management and archives architecture pro-actively preserves culture and heritage. One of our goals is to accelerate storage and logistical development. For instance, we develop storage solutions for books. We also update space plans. We ensure efficient building use. We employ various robotic methods alongside traditional shelving systems. Notably, Autostore, VLM, and Robotic solutions represent possible innovations. Certainly, storage system analysis and solutions contribute to a building’s potential. Additionally, these storage systems provide a capacity of up to 7 items for every 1 item in regular book shelving or building. The capacity increase loosens up the potential of the institution, organization, etc.
Here are a few tech ideas to watch:
Robotic (autostore set ups)
ASRS crane systems
VLM systems
Archives Options
Our research demonstrates that modernizing special collection book management and staff/operations spaces creates efficiencies. Basically, it unlocks fundraising opportunities A study will outline cost savings.
Proper archive management plays a paramount role in preserving the items. For instance, maintaining a clean and stable environment for the library’s resources is essential. Essentially, we assist archives and special collections in implementing strategies to improve book preservation. We carefully study how to handle books. Initiating a library space plan can significantly extend the lifespan of library special collections and archival materials.
Storage and Shelving
Books are sensitive to their environment. Excessive heat can dry out and warp pages. Books should be stored upright on shelves. They should not be stacked on top of each other. When books are stacked, the weight can cause damage to the covers and spines.
In general, the higher the temperature the more rapidly materials will deteriorate, and the lower the temperature the longer materials will last. However, because people must have access to library and archival materials, there is a practical limit to how low the temperature can be maintained. Ideally, the temperature should be closely controlled at 20° to 21° Centigrade (68° to -70° Fahrenheit) and consistently maintained in all areas of a storage facility.
VLM systems can be integrated into the library, museum or learning commons building. Special libraries can have these systems built literally into the walls.
Archives Recommendation
Old books should be opened carefully to avoid damaging the spine. Basically, the spine of a book can be quite delicate. Over time, the glue that holds the pages together can dry out and become brittle. Opening the book too quickly or forcefully can cause the spine to crack or pages to come loose.
You should analyze the verso to understand the value of the item. The verso of a book, also known as the reverse side of a leaf or the left-hand page of an open book. Often, it contains useful information about the book. This can include details about the publisher, the year of publication, the author, and even the edition of the book. We help library management by analyzing this information to gain a better understanding of the book’s provenance and potential value.
The next stage in development is the creation of an Archive AI program. This will allow you to upload files around a subject and create a dynamic resource. Contact Library AI Consultant
Fragile Repositories
We work with fragile books and repositories. We help plan for a better storage of books, we make sure the storage environment doesn’t have floor loading issues. Because the weight can damage the building. We know that materials need to be kept in a stable, cool, and dry environment. Most importantly, humidity is something you need to monitor. It can encourage the growth of mold. A cool and dry environment helps to preserve the integrity of the paper. It helps binding hold; prolonging the life of the book.
Excessive heat, humidity, and light can cause damage over time. We recommend a library planning study to determine the best library space planning options.
Professional Conservation Strategies
We provide professional conservation strategies with AI techniques. It enables the library, museum, organization or medical center to build up a library program of past research and cultural items. We provide a process that enables the leadership to plan, grow and harvest their achieves and special collections knowledge resources. For particularly valuable or fragile books, it may be necessary to develop a VLM or Autostore system. This inventory system allows for the safe storage and conservation of special collections.
Contact Aaron Cohen Associates, LTD to support your Archives and Preservation Planning Needs.
