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Many of our stories and histories are told through scrapbooks and the photos, cards, and letters we populate them with. To keep these stories for future generations, we need to be able to provide appropriate long term care for those memories. Join archivists and conservators from RAM and PAA to learn how to care for your own paper memorabilia collection. This workshp will give you an introduction to best practices in caring for photos, letters, cards, and scrapbooks.

Topics covered include:

• Types of items and stories archives and museums collect
• Understanding preservation and agents of deterioration
• Dos and don'ts of handling, storage, and display
• Benefits of using proper storage materials
• Practical knowledge and materials to protect one scrapbook or small collection of photos, letters, and cards with archival/museum quality storage

Description of item must be submitted at time of registration. Items must be relatively small and portalble (one scrapbook or one small collection of photos/letters/cards no larger than shoebox size). We may decline your items if we cannot accommodate them.

This workshop is open to anyone aged 15+, with no previous experience necessary. General admission is included in ticket price.

FAQ:

Will I get an appraisal or valuation of my item?

• No, we are not appraisers. We recommend that you reach out to the International Society of Appraisers' Canadian Chapter if you are interested in getting a valuation at https://www.isa-appraisers.ca/find-an-appraiser/

Will you be able to tell me more about my item?

• While we will be able to speak to the materials and techniques in your piece, we will not be able to give you the kind of context that detailed historical research could bring. An archivist will be available to share tips for how to find out more about your piece.

What if I want to donate my item to the museum?

• We will not be accepting donations on the day of the workshop, but you are always welcome to reach out to us at ACSW.InfoRAM@gov.ab.ca and your donation offer will be routed to the relevant curator.

What kind of archival or museum quality housing can I expect after the workshop?

• It depends on your item, but possibilities include a custom storage box, encapsulation sleeves, or folders. Whatever the case, you can be assured that it will be customized to your item, and will be made from archival quality materials to protect your item for long term storage.

Is this a hands-on workshop?

• Yes! Please be prepared to roll up your sleeves and get crafty. Staff will give demonstrations and will be able to assist, but you'll be creating the housing for your item!