RESTORATION OF ARCHIVAL MATERIALS

The National Archives of Namibia Restoration facility was launched on 9^th February 2023 to primarily focus on preserving and repairing endangered paper archival materials. The section restore maps, make file protective covers, bind books and finding aids. The section also offers training and practical in restorations for University students undertaking studies in Information Science and History as well as officials from the Government Ministries and State owned Enterprise.

THE MAIN ACTIVITIES OF THE RESTORATION FACILITY INVOLVES

• Restoring damaged records
• Surface cleaning of the records prior to restoration
• Dismantling and removal of fasteners and tapes on the records
• Full pasting of glue on the records
• Minor and major repairs on paper records
• Preparation of chemicals for repair using wealth starch and Laponite Magnesium
• Binding diversified materials
• Soft cover binding for finding aids
• Provision of professional advice on restoration of public records at national and regional levels.
• Training students on attachment on restoration
• Advise students in School and Universities on restoration
• Advise archival institutions regionally on restoration