How to Store & Preserve Newspapers
Despite many newspaper companies going out of business due to low readership and to focus on digital media, traditional print publications still have their place in modern life. Newspaper clippings offer a glimpse into history, mark milestones in our lives, and help future generations remember significant events.
But if you don’t know how to store newspapers in a way that keeps them preserved, they will deteriorate beyond readability and become worthless. Here is some information about how to preserve newspaper clippings and newspaper storage tips to help printed materials last for decades.
Why Preserve Newspapers?
You may want to preserve a newspaper for many reasons, such as to remember personal accomplishments reported in the news or memories that shaped your life. In addition to saving newspapers for sentimental value, you might also save newspapers for historical reasons. Without learning how to preserve old newspapers, much of our personal and shared history would be lost forever.
Understanding Newspaper Deterioration
The composition of newsprint paper is cheap, disposable, and high in lignin. The acidity in newsprint paper results in discoloration, brittleness, and degradation over time. Meanwhile, environmental factors, such as humidity, UV lights, and pollutants, contribute to deterioration and make it essential to learn how to preserve newspaper clippings.
Preparing Newspapers for Storage
Two main tasks go into the process of how to preserve old newspapers.
Cleaning
First, remove surface oils, dirt, and dust from the newspaper so that they do not settle into the paper and print. Specialized document cleaning pads can be used to gently clean the newspaper. Ensure your hands are clean, or wear cotton gloves during this cleaning.
Repairing Tears
The next step in the process of how to protect old newspapers is to use repair tape or archival-quality mending tissue to repair any rips that have occurred. However, avoid using standard adhesive tape on newspapers because it can cause further damage.
Sorting and Organizing Newspapers
In addition to discovering how to store newspapers, it is also vital to keep them organized, especially if you have accumulated a vast collection. Consider sorting papers by year, specific event, or personal significance.
With a good organizational system in place, you can easily access your documents and only handle them minimally to ensure the best preservation.
Storage Solutions
Do you have space at home to store newspapers, or would an off-site storage facility be useful?
Home Storage Tips
- Store newspapers with acid-free materials, like boxes with tissue paper
- Don’t store newspapers in high-risk areas, like garages, attics, or basements
- Choose dry, warm environments for newspaper storage
Benefits of Self-Storage Facilities
- Climate-controlled facility features
- Protection from household hazards
- Prevent other people from ruining them
Specific Storage Techniques
Here are some techniques to help you achieve the best way to save newspaper clippings.
Acid-Free Boxes and Tissue
Acidity weakens the bond between paper fibers to the point of breaking apart. Use acid-free boxes and tissue, and leave enough room for air to circulate in the boxes.
Flat Storage
Another tip for how to store newspapers is to store them flat to prevent folds and creases. For extra protection, store them in telescoping-lid folders and rigid boxes.
Specialized Storage Boxes
There are also metal-edged boxes specifically designed to store newspapers. These boxes protect paper from dust, pests, and UV light.
Displaying Newspapers
If you want to display your newspaper rather than store it away, consider hanging a photocopy to protect the original from air and sunlight. If you hang an original, ensure it is displayed with UV-blocking glass and an acid-free backing.
Minimizing Handling and Exposure
Newspaper storage also requires limited handling to preserve the condition. When you occasionally view the paper, ensure your hands are clean and gently and fully support the paper while holding it.
Advanced Preservation Techniques
For very rare and unique newspapers, consider professional de-acidification. However, this service can cost as much as $50 a page. Preservation companies also offer environmental and humidity monitoring equipment for newspaper storage.
FAQs on Newspaper Preservation
At Stop & Stor, we often receive questions from our customers about how to store newspapers, such as the following:
What’s the Best Way to Save Newspaper Clippings?
Acid-free sleeves, binders, and archival boxes with tissue are effective strategies for preserving newspapers. It is also smart to create digital scans of newspaper clippings for long-term preservation.
Should I Laminate My Newspapers?
No, the plastic in the lamination reacts chemically with light and will increase the likelihood of yellowing and deterioration.
Is It Safe to Frame My Newspapers?
Yes, framing newspapers with an acid-free backing board and UV-blocking light is an effective way of preserving and protecting them, as long as frames are hung away from windows.
Is Keeping Old Newspapers Worthwhile?
If something printed in a newspaper is meaningful to you, then yes, there is value in saving it for the future.
Why Would I Keep a Newspaper?
Many people save birth and wedding announcements, obituaries, and coverage of their children’s sports and academic accomplishments. Newspapers documenting major world and national events and cultural milestones often end up in museums where future generations can learn about what happened and its significance.
Final Words About How to Store Newspapers
We hope you've found these tips on how to store old newspapers helpful and are now inspired to ensure the longevity of your valuable documents. To best care for your newspapers, consider using our professional self-storage options for the best preservation results.
We have many locations throughout New York and are here to answer all your questions about newspaper storage. Please contact us online or at 718-698-8000 to learn more.
Established in 1980, Stop & Stor is a family owned and operated business that has become New York’s Self Storage Leader by offering cutting-edge facilities in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island.
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