Caring for Plastics in Collections

Caring for Plastics in Collections presents basic knowledge of plastics in an accessible way and empowers readers to determine the best approach for care, taking into account the resources at their institution and the needs of their specific collection.

Drawing on the author’s 20 years of experience working as an Objects Conservator, the book defines what a plastic is; which plastics are most worrisome in collections and why; and how you can identify plastics, monitor them, and mitigate issues. Clarifying that there are guidelines that all plastics will benefit from, Coughlin outlines a gradual, consistent approach to care that is supplemented by 25 case studies from 10 institutions. Knowing that collection teams are too frequently understaffed and funds are often limited, the book approaches the care of plastics from both preventive conservation and collection management with a focus on low-cost, accessible options for monitoring potential degradation products; the use of readily available materials and resources; tips for designing condition surveys; and using existing database content to flag plastics that may pose a collection risk. In this way, collection stewards, such as collection managers, registrars, curators, archivists, and anyone tasked with caring for collections containing plastics, will be poised to make more informed decisions about storage, display, and loans.

Caring for Plastics in Collections is an essential resource for professionals working in a range of institutions around the globe, including galleries, libraries, archives, historic houses and museums.