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De-acidification
The new Pretoria campus building offers an opportunity to make provision for new conservation services. A mass de-acidification facility was approved as part of the new technology that would be implemented.
Mass De-acidification system to be implemented
In terms of the National Library of South Africa Act the NLSA acts as the national preservation library which also provides conservation services on a national basis. 
The significant part that acidity plays in the rapid deterioration of paper has long been recognized. Over time acids cause paper to become brittle resulting in loss of valuable heritage resources. The Library’s book collection contains more than 500 000 original South African titles. It is estimated that as much as 60% (300 000) are in danger of future loss due to paper deterioration.
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Institutions that are interested or in need for de-acidification services or would like to cooperate in any way are invited and encouraged to contact us.
Installation of the system is expected to take place in the
next six to nine months. The NLSA is considering offering de-acidification
services to other cultural institutions and clients in South and Southern
Africa.
CONTACT PERSON:
Douwe Drijfhout
PRESERVATION SERVICES
Tel +27 21 487 5642
Fax +27 21 423 3359
Cell 082 819 3626
Email douwe.drijfhout@nlsa.ac.za