What is the Image Permanence Institute?

The Image Permanence Institute (IPI) is a research center located at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). It is a department within the College of Art and Design and focuses on the preservation of cultural heritage collections. The IPI was created by the Image Permanence Institute at RIT and the Institute of Museum and Library Services in 1985.

What Type of Research Services Does the Image Permanence Institute Do?

The Image Permanence Institute offers a range of services to support and inform preservation research practices in museums, archives, and other cultural heritage institutions. They provide practical, technical, and publication resources to ensure the long-term preservation of objects and collections.

Photographic Print Preservation

One of the main areas of research at the IPI is photographic print preservation. They study different preservation metrics and guidelines to develop best practices for the sustainable preservation of photographic prints. Their research also includes the development of new materials and techniques for preserving and conserving photographs.

Film Preservation

Another area of focus for the IPI is film preservation. They provide consulting services to institutions and individuals looking to preserve film collections. They offer expertise on the preservation of different film formats and guide institutions on best practices for the long-term storage and care of film materials.

Digital Print Preservation

In addition to traditional print and film preservation, the IPI also conducts research on the preservation of digital prints. With the advancements in digital technology, it has become crucial to develop sustainable preservation practices for digital materials. The IPI offers guidance on the long-term storage and management of digital files to ensure their accessibility and preservation over time.

Collections Environmental Monitoring and Support

The IPI’s research also extends to the monitoring of environmental conditions in collections. They provide institutions with tools and guidelines for sustainable environmental management. By monitoring and controlling temperature, humidity, and other environmental factors, institutions can protect their collections from deterioration and damage caused by improper environmental conditions.

Sustainable Preservation Practices and Resources

The IPI is committed to promoting sustainable preservation practices. They offer consulting services on sustainable environmental management and work with institutions to develop sustainable preservation plans. Their experts provide guidance on energy-efficient storage solutions, sustainable materials, and other practices that minimize the environmental impact of preservation activities.

3D Printed Materials

In recent years, 3D printing has gained popularity in various fields, including cultural heritage. The IPI conducts research on the preservation of 3D printed materials and provides guidance on best practices for their storage and care. They work towards ensuring the long-term preservation of 3D printed objects in museums and other cultural institutions.

What does Preservation of Cultural Heritage Collections Mean?

Cultural heritage collections refer to a wide range of materials, objects, documents, and artifacts that hold significance and value for a particular culture, community, or society. These collections are typically preserved and maintained to safeguard the cultural, historical, artistic, and scientific heritage of a region or group of people. Cultural heritage collections can include:

1. Artifacts: Physical objects such as sculptures, pottery, tools, clothing, and other items that provide insights into the daily lives, traditions, and technologies of past societies.
2. Archives and Documents: Historical records, manuscripts, letters, diaries, photographs, maps, and other written or printed materials that document the history, literature, and intellectual achievements of a culture.
3. Art and Fine Arts: Paintings, drawings, prints, and other forms of visual art that reflect the artistic and creative achievements of a culture or era.
4. Cultural and Natural History Specimens: Specimens of plants, animals, fossils, and geological materials that contribute to our understanding of the natural world and the biodiversity of a region.
5. Historical Buildings and Sites: Architectural structures, landmarks, and archaeological sites that have cultural, historical, or architectural significance.
6. Oral Histories and Traditions: Recorded interviews, oral histories, folktales, songs, and other forms of oral tradition that convey cultural knowledge and traditions.
7. Museums and Galleries: Collections of objects, artworks, and exhibitions that are open to the public for education and enjoyment.
8. Libraries: Collections of books, manuscripts, and other printed materials that serve as repositories of knowledge and culture.
9. Archaeological Finds: Objects and materials recovered through archaeological excavations, shedding light on ancient civilizations and human history.
10. Digital Collections: Increasingly, cultural heritage collections are being digitized and made accessible online, allowing broader access to these materials while preserving the originals.

Preserving and curating cultural heritage collections is essential for various reasons, including:

• Preservation of History: These collections provide insights into the history, traditions, and evolution of societies and cultures.
• Education and Research: They serve as valuable resources for scholars, researchers, and students studying various aspects of culture, history, art, and science.
• Cultural Identity: Cultural heritage collections play a role in preserving and promoting a community’s or nation’s cultural identity and heritage.
• Tourism and Economic Impact: Cultural heritage sites and museums often attract tourists, contributing to local economies.
• Conservation: These collections can also be crucial for conservation efforts, such as the preservation of endangered species or ecosystems.

Efforts are made by governments, institutions, and organizations to safeguard and maintain cultural heritage collections to ensure they remain accessible for future generations and continue to contribute to our understanding of the past and present.

In conclusion, the Image Permanence Institute at the Rochester Institute of Technology plays a crucial role in the preservation of cultural heritage collections. Through their research and consulting services, they contribute to the development of best practices for sustainable environmental management and preservation. Their expertise and resources are valuable assets for museums, archives, and other institutions seeking to ensure the long-term preservation of their collections.