Handling archival documents
Mishandling of documents is a major cause of deterioration. Effects may be immediate (for example, tearing, loss of information etc.) but damage can also become evident suddenly and dramatically, even after many years have passed. That is why it is so important that you handle documents carefully.
By registering as a visitor, you are agreeing to abide by the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland (PRONI)'s guidance for public consultation of PRONI records (112KB) 
. This is outlined in the ‘Welcome’ leaflet which you receive at the time of registration and summarised on our dos and don’ts webpage however, it is advisable that you read the full text version before beginning your research as it includes comprehensive guidance on document handling.
. This is outlined in the ‘Welcome’ leaflet which you receive at the time of registration and summarised on our dos and don’ts webpage however, it is advisable that you read the full text version before beginning your research as it includes comprehensive guidance on document handling.Below you will find some practical advice which should be followed at all times to help protect the archives:
- Make sure your hands are clean and dry. Wetting fingers (to turn pages) must be avoided.
- Biro/fountain pens, ink or typing correction fluid must not be used around documents – pencil only.
- On no account should instruments be used to free pages that are stuck together - seek assistance from staff. Do not open sealed items.
- Never attempt to remove paper clips, pins or staples from documents.
- Do not mark a book or document; do not lean on a book or document; do not place the paper on which you are writing onto a book or document.
- Tracing is not permitted unless you have a protective covering from the issue desk.
- Do not fold, crease or bend any document - great care should be taken when turning pages or unfolding documents.
- Do not remove documents from clear protective sleeves.
- Take care when removing or replacing documents in envelopes.
- Do not re-arrange loose papers.
- Re-assemble document bundles with care. Do not tie document tape too tightly around bundles.
- Documents must be kept on the desk at all times - do not let documents overhang the edges of the table. Use the book support cushions to support bound volumes.
- Do not place heavy volumes on top of another document or map.
- Do not force a volume to lie flat or leave it open face downwards - use support bags and volume restraints. Place leather weights at both ends of rolled documents for support.
- Do not flex photographic negatives and prints and do not touch them, except at the edges. Wear lint free cotton gloves when handling original photographic prints or negatives.
- Take care when loading and removing microfilms.
- Report any documents missing or in a fragile condition.
