Don't play old movies. Send the original to the ATO Archives. Movies made before World War II were often made on nitrate film, which becomes explosive as it deteriorates. If you come across nitrate film, first get it out of your building if you can't put it in a freezer, then immediately consult a conservation professional. Computer files destined for the ATO Archives are also discussed on another page .
Digital information can disappear in a heartbeat.
Save files on fresh disks and in hardcopy. A program of preservation of machine-readable records , both computer files and videos, from Georgia. Moreover, as anyone stuck with a box of old 8-track audio tapes ot Beta videos knows, it can be hard to find equipment to play them with. Keep your hands and work area clean. Keep all food and drink far away, both because they can damage your records directly and because they attract vermin who will eat and excrete them.