Jim, there's a voluminous and growing conservation literature where information of use to archaeologists, anthropologists, natural scientists, et al. as well as conservators is disseminated. As a start, you might want to subscribe to the Conservation Distribution List moderated by Walter Henry at Stanford (send a query to [log in to unmask]). Participation is no charge, and the resources set up by Walter include bibliography and reference listings as well as an archives of discussion on the list. You might also investigate subscribing to the Canadian Heritage Information Natwork (CHIN)(phone 613-992-3333 or e-mail <[log in to unmask]>). This is a fee-for-access resource with extensive databases of literature, materials, and other information pertinent to conservation. Membership is not very expensive, geared to not-for-profits and accessible by telnet. In re testing and how it happens, see my earlier note. Karen Motylewski Director of Field Service Northeast Document Conservation Center 100 Brickstone Square Andover, MA 01810 (508) 470-1010 FAX (508) 475-6021 > That is what I'm getting at. Who tests materials for the purposes of > curation? How are the tests performed? Where is that information published? > Those are the questions for which I'd like some answers. My colleagues and I > would appreciate any information available. Thanks. >