BS 4971:2017 Conservation and care of archive and library collections

What is this standard about?

It specifies current best practice in managing archive and library collections to ensure their long-term preservation.

Note: BS 4971 covers the exhibition and storage aspects of conservation formerly found in PD 5454. Together with BS EN 16893:2017 Conservation of Cultural Heritage. New sites and buildings intended for the storage and use of collections, which is in preparation, this standard replaces PD 5454, which is withdrawn.

Who is this standard for?

• Libraries, museums and galleries
• Curators
• Conservationists
• Conservators
• Private collectors
• Purchasers and users of PD 5454

Why should you use this standard?

It reflects the sector's current needs by addressing the wide range of collection materials now held in archives and libraries. Its clauses relate to conservation policy and planning, preventive conservation and remedial conservation.

What's changed since the last update?

This standard is a technical revision of the 2003 version and also provides a technical revision of the conservation aspects in PD 5454:2012. It takes into account changes to the types of media which need to be preserved and now covers:

• Traditional media
• More recent non-traditional media (such as photographic and analogue audio-visual media)
• The carriers of digital media

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