The Yale Library, one of the oldest and largest academic libraries in the United States, has been at the forefront of innovation in library services and technology. Among its many initiatives, the library has implemented a unique system to preserve its vast collections, including the use of oxygen-free environments to protect sensitive materials. The Yale Library oxygen-free storage system is designed to provide a stable and controlled environment for the long-term preservation of rare and fragile items, such as manuscripts, books, and other materials that are susceptible to damage from oxygen and moisture.
Importance of Oxygen-Free Storage
Oxygen is a major contributor to the degradation of organic materials, such as paper, parchment, and leather. When these materials are exposed to oxygen, they can undergo a process called oxidation, which leads to the breakdown of their molecular structure and eventual deterioration. By removing oxygen from the storage environment, the Yale Library can significantly slow down this degradation process and help preserve its collections for future generations. The use of oxygen-free storage is particularly important for materials that are sensitive to light, heat, and humidity, as these factors can also contribute to their deterioration.
Technical Specifications of the Oxygen-Free Storage System
The Yale Library’s oxygen-free storage system is designed to maintain a consistent and controlled environment, with relative humidity (RH) levels between 30% and 50% and temperatures between 60°F and 70°F (15°C and 21°C). The system uses a combination of nitrogen gas and a specialized air filtration system to remove oxygen and other gases that can contribute to deterioration. The oxygen levels in the storage area are maintained at less than 1%, which is significantly lower than the 21% oxygen levels found in normal atmospheric conditions.
| Environmental Parameter | Target Value |
|---|---|
| Relative Humidity (RH) | 30-50% |
| Temperature | 60°F-70°F (15°C-21°C) |
| Oxygen Levels | <1% |
Benefits of Oxygen-Free Storage
The oxygen-free storage system at the Yale Library provides several benefits, including improved preservation of sensitive materials, reduced risk of deterioration, and enhanced research opportunities. By maintaining a stable and controlled environment, the library can help to prevent the loss of valuable information and cultural heritage. The oxygen-free storage system also allows the library to store materials that would otherwise be too sensitive for traditional storage methods, such as manuscripts written on vellum or parchment.
Case Study: Preservation of Rare Manuscripts
The Yale Library has used its oxygen-free storage system to preserve a number of rare and valuable manuscripts, including a 12th-century manuscript of the Canterbury Tales. The manuscript, which is written on vellum, was previously stored in a traditional environment and was showing signs of deterioration. By moving the manuscript to the oxygen-free storage area, the library was able to slow down the degradation process and help preserve the manuscript for future generations. The manuscript is now stored in a custom-made box filled with nitrogen gas, which helps to maintain a stable and controlled environment.
What is the purpose of oxygen-free storage in libraries?
+The purpose of oxygen-free storage in libraries is to provide a stable and controlled environment for the long-term preservation of sensitive materials, such as manuscripts, books, and other materials that are susceptible to damage from oxygen and moisture.
How does the Yale Library's oxygen-free storage system work?
+The Yale Library's oxygen-free storage system uses a combination of nitrogen gas and a specialized air filtration system to remove oxygen and other gases that can contribute to deterioration. The system maintains a consistent and controlled environment, with relative humidity levels between 30% and 50% and temperatures between 60°F and 70°F (15°C and 21°C).
In conclusion, the Yale Library’s oxygen-free storage system is a critical component of the library’s preservation strategy, providing a stable and controlled environment for the long-term preservation of sensitive materials. By maintaining a consistent and controlled environment, the library can help to prevent the loss of valuable information and cultural heritage, and ensure the long-term availability of its collections for research and study.
