Collection condition surveys can provide important information for an overall preservation strategy for collections large and small. 

A survey can help to identify the overall condition of the collection through item-by-item examination. Your survey will be tailored to fit the specific needs of your institution; common notation includes materials and media, method of manufacture, content, format, as well as specific descriptions of current physical and chemical condition. 

Benefits of a Condition survey:

  • An essential tool in requesting grant funding for further conservation or preventive measures. 
  • Can identify particular issues and areas of the collection at higher risk. 
  • Can help to prioritize treatments or allocation of funds for treatment, storage, or environmental upgrades.
  • Reliable snapshot of the collection for later comparison.