Project Description
Based on a finding aid of Charles A. Platt Architectural Records and Papers collection at Columbia University, this project aims to understand the materials in the collection and their deterioration risks to propose a plan for storage in order to properly care and preserve each resource.
The collection consists of architectural drawings, photographs, glass negatives and other types of documentation records spanning from 1879-1981. Many types of supports and media were in use in that time span, and research into architectural practice during those times was necessary for proper identification of ink makeup and photographic practices in order to anticipate possible deterioration factors.
This project aims to create a comprehensive and attainable preservation plan of storage for the vast array of materials present in this architectural research collection, ensuring continual and future access is possible.
Key Skills
Methods
- Finding aid and public digital database analysis
- Identification of the materials in the collection
- Research on Charles A. Platt and architectural practices to identify likely supports and mediums present
- Assessment of degradation risks
- Plan for storage materials for each type of resource
Course
INFO-632: Conservation and Preservation
Pratt Institute
INFO-634: Conservation Lab
Supplementally, in Conservation Lab, I gained hands on experience in conservation with paper materials. In addition to the lab reports, the projects included mylar encapsulation, book rebinding with both cloth and marble paper, and customized book storage.
Marilyn Ray 