Putting acid free board would be a better solution under objects, it would add padding as well as a buffer from the rust. (good idea even on good shelving)

You may also try to get some rust treatment before having them brought in. There are many rust stopping spray or brush on paints at hardware stores, just let the shelves air out for a while before you put anything on them or seal them in a small room. 

Elizabeth Walton


-----Original Message-----
From: Nancy Reddy <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Aug 4, 2005 12:29 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Rusty metal shelves

Hi everyone,
I wrote a grant application this spring and was awarded $1,500 to spend
on preserving our town's historic artifacts. I included metal shelving in
the application but have since been given a donation of shelving. Trouble
is, there's a bit of rust on most of the shelves. 

Is this going to be a problem for the shelves that I will be setting acid
free boxes on? How about if I want to set a larger artifact on a shelf
(say, something leather or wood)? Should I protect the item by putting
cotton sheeting between it and the shelf or should I reject the rusty
shelving altogether and buy new ones?

Excuse my continued ignorance...I'm a volunteer and doing the best I can!
The information you all have provided so far has probably saved our
collection! 

Thanks for your advice,
Nancy R.
non-professional volunteer historian in a mostly apathetic community  

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