Many older materials are rapidly deteriorating due to natural processes and inadequate storage conditions of past years. Original documents are preserved in the TSLA through a variety of techniques. The controlled environment at the TSLA provides a suitable climate for long-term storage. Conservation techniques include surface cleaning, deacidification, repair of damaged and torn documents, encapsulation, and proper storage.
Encapsulation is a recent technique used for preservation of loose documents.
Archival storage materials include acid-free folders, boxes, boards, and interleaving paper. Preservation Microfilming Local records The TSLA microfilms Tennessee deeds, wills, court minutes, estate settlements, and marriage records for safekeeping. Since 1961, millions of documents have been microfilmed in the county courthouses, providing a wealth of legal, historical, and genealogical source material. Duplicates are available for use or purchase by the public. An inventory of county records on microfilm is available on our website.