Where to buy archival storage boxes
The art of saving artifacts for future generations goes back centuries. The first libraries were in ancient Egypt where precious documents of papyrus and stone were kept. The practice of preserving documents and records continued, not just in libraries, but also in museums and homes as well. For this reason, storage was created that would help to preserve those documents and records. Archival storage boxes made from acid-free cardboard were created.
Office supply stores
Office supply stores would be a place where you may buy archival boxes. The boxes will be of varying sizes and may also include archival shelving. Make sure that the boxes are truly acid-free. The acid found in regular boxes such as mailing boxes and corrugated boxes will eventually destroy the paper stored with it, as the acid contained in the cardboard will make the paper brittle.
Storage supply stores
Another place to buy archival boxes is at storage supply stores. These stores specialise in supplies for storage. Supplies for archival storage would also be included. Some of the boxes included would be those found at the office supply store as well as filing boxes, boxes that are of letter or legal size and more. You may even find acid free sleeves in which to store individual documents.
The selection may be also better than the office supply stores.
Online retailers
Online retailers like University Products carry a wide selection of archival boxes. Some of the boxes are made of polypropylene, acid-free boards that are covered with calcium carbonate, acid-free boxes with clear tops, full view archival boxes that allow you to completely view the specimen within, modular archival boxes. There are also other boxes and systems that allow you to preserve the artifacts which you wish to preserve. These companies also carry additional archival products such aspens, acid-free labels, laser printer labels, and polyester batting and foam rods that help to cushion what is stored in the boxes, keeping it from breakage. Companies such as these sell supplies to museums, universities and other organisations. These retailers offer the widest range of archival products as well as some of the best storage for the professional as well as for the layman.