"Recently, Andrew Davis, a chemist in the library's Preservation Research and Testing Division, showed us how it works. The lab tests materials commonly found in the collections, such as glass, cardboard, and even barcodes, to make sure they won't have detrimental effects on the artifacts. By subjecting the objects to extreme conditions like high heat and humidity, Davis says, scientists can simulate decades of wear in just months. This helps the library determine the minimal conditions needed to preserve certain artifacts."
"The goal isn't to keep them in pristine condition but to slow their natural deterioration. Accelerated-aging labs aren't uncommon in museums and galleries, but the Library of Congress's facility stands out for its size and advanced equipment. The lab often collaborates with other archives and libraries that store historic and rare collections, including the National Archives and Howard University."
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