DOCUMENTation

Documentation is always the first step when a diary or journal enters the American Diary Project collection.

We categorize each item in our database, noting important characteristics like the year it was written, where it was written, what it looks like, and any additional information we might have about the author.

We are also in the process of photographing the collection for online viewing and reference research. You can access digitized diaries within our Collection.

CAREFUL HANDLING & STORAGE

The American Diary Project follows handling and storage guidelines outlined by The Library of Congress for all items in our collection.

• Journals are stored upright inside unsealed polyethylene bags (because books need to breathe!)
• Each bagged journal is stored in a quality acid-free archival box
• Similar-sized journals are housed together to provide maximum support and prevent warping
• Boxes are stored in a temperature-controlled, dry room (never in a hot attic or musty basement)
• Journals have minimal exposure to light to prevent discoloration and fading
• Gentle cleaning is applied to soiled journals
• Food and drink are kept away from journals during handling
• Paper clips and “dog ear” folding are never used to mark pages
• Rubber bands, tape, and glue (including sticky notes) are never used on journals

Thanks to thoughtful preservation, storage, and handling, the memories residing in our collection of journals will live on for many years to come.

If you’d like to contribute archival supplies to the American Diary Project, please view our wish list.