Treasures from the Past

Many of us have special family heirlooms passed down and kept in boxes, frames, trunks, and filing cabinets. In some cases, these papers, letters, family Bibles, and photos may hold the last remaining glimpse into the life of a beloved ancestor. South Carolina Room staff want to help you in your quest to keep these treasured family memories preserved for future generations.

Digitizing Your Photos & Letters

Digitizing your materials is a great way to help preserve them. Did you know the South Carolina Room at the Hughes Main Library has a free scanner available for your use? Create digital images of your treasures with this useful tool. Remember to bring a flash drive to save files!

Top 5 Tips for Preservation:

1. Store your items in an environment that is cool, dark, and dry. Avoid storing in attics or basements which can be humid, hot, and damp.

2. Keep treasured records away from sunlight. If you want to display one, consider printing a copy to showcase instead.

3. Avoid using albums with adhesive. Instead, opt for acid free boxes or folders. Polyester sleeves or envelopes are also suitable storage options.

4. Label your folders and boxes in pencil only; you can’t erase a stray ink mark!

5. Handle your heirlooms with care. Make sure your hands are clean, dry, and free from oils or lotions. When handling photos or negatives, wear nitrile or lint-free cotton gloves. If gloves are not available, only touch the edges of the photo.

More to Explore

Youtube: @GreenvilleLibrary

Choose from dozens of history and genealogy themed videos presented by South Carolina Room staff on these topics and more:

• Preserving Photos & Letters

• Finding Your Female Ancestors

• Exploring County Records

• Introduction to Newspapers.com

• Historic Handwriting

• Military Records on Fold3

Want to learn more about local history and genealogy? Make an appointment or drop in for a visit to the South Carolina Room at the Hughes Main Library and start your journey today. Schedule an appointment at greenvillelibrary.org/sc-room.

Digitize Greenville: Share Your History

We want your photos of Greenville County:

• Streets and landmarks

• Organizations and businesses

• Schools, churches, and social clubs

Greenville County Library System continues to build online collections to preserve the rich history of Greenville County. Share these memories with a wider audience by allowing them to be digitized and returned to you.

Schedule a scanning session today at greenvillelibrary.org/digitize-greenville.