The Preservation Services Division comprises Conservation and Reprographics; both are responsible for ensuring that the archives last for future generations. The team includes conservators and a reprographics officer.

Conservation are responsible for maintaining the physical environment in which the archives are stored. Archives need to be stored at the optimum temperature and humidity to ensure their long-term survival so air conditioning is used. They also need to be kept free from the threats of vermin, fire and theft. The Dorset History Centre is fortunate in having purpose-built accommodation, which enables the correct conditions to be maintained.

Skilled professional conservators are able to treat records which have been damaged in the past by mould, vermin, poor storage or other causes. This intervention allows inaccessible items to become accessible for research and ensures their long-term survival.

Reprographics uses both traditional photographic techniques, such as microfilm, alongside modern digital methods to produce copies of documents. This service produces surrogate access to popular sources such as the parish records, ensuring that the originals are not damaged by over handling. A fee paying service is also available to the public for high resolution copies of documents.

For further information please contact:

• Conservation Officer
  Name: Rebecca Donnan
  Email: r.l.donnan@dorsetcc.gov.uk
  Tel: 01305 250550
  Full details for Rebecca Donnan