Archival Rehousing
ADD-ONS
Protecting Original Materials for Generations to Come
When digitization is complete, the work of preservation isn’t over. Original photographs, documents, artwork, and artifacts still require proper care to ensure they remain stable, safe, and accessible for the long term. Anderson Archival provides professional rehousing and long‑term storage solutions that protect physical collections after digitization—so nothing is left vulnerable or overlooked.
As part of our comprehensive legacy preservation services, we return materials storage‑ready, clearly organized, and protected according to archival best practices.
Preservation Is More Than Digitization
Digitization increases access—but rehousing protects the originals.
At Anderson Archival, we believe true preservation means:
- Safeguarding physical materials
- Creating meaningful digital access
- Ensuring collections are prepared for the future
From the first scan to the final returned box, we manage every detail with care, intention, and respect for the stories your materials hold.
What Is Rehousing in Archival Preservation?
Rehousing refers to the process of transferring original materials from damaging or unstable enclosures into archival-quality storage materials designed to extend their lifespan.
This may include:
- Replacing acidic folders, boxes, and albums
- Separating fragile or at‑risk items
- Creating custom enclosures for oversized or delicate materials
- Organizing materials for safe handling and future access
Rehousing is one of the most effective ways to slow deterioration, prevent physical damage, and improve long-term care of historical and personal collections.
Archival-Quality Storage Materials
We use industry standard, preservation grade supplies, including acid free and lignin free folders, buffered and unbuffered enclosures, archival document boxes, polyester and paper photo sleeves, and custom housings for artwork and fragile items. All materials are selected based on collection type, condition, and long term preservation goals.
Collection Organization and Labeling
Rehousing is also an opportunity to bring clarity and order to collections. We maintain or improve original order when appropriate, clearly label boxes and folders, align physical organization with digital file structures, and prepare collections for easier access and future management. This ensures your physical and digital collections work together—not separately.
Storage-Ready Return After Digitization
As part of our all in one legacy preservation approach, materials digitized by Anderson Archival are carefully rehoused after scanning, returned in stable, protective enclosures, and organized for safe storage or transfer. Clients don’t need to coordinate with multiple vendors or worry about what happens next—we handle the entire process.
Guidance for Safe Storage Environments
While we do not operate storage facilities, we provide expert guidance on ideal environmental conditions, safe storage locations within homes or institutions, handling practices to reduce wear and damage, and preparing collections for long-term custodianship. Our goal is to help you make informed, sustainable decisions about the future of your collection.