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Archival Storage

It’s true that nothing lasts forever. Spacesaver’s archive storage systems put time on your side. They help preserve documentary materials for generations to come.

The archives of county government are a treasure trove of modern and historic documents, including atlases, plat records, court documents, marriage records, and many others that are often required by state law to be preserved on paper. These archives play an important role in ensuring transparency and accountability, and must be made available to staff, researchers, the general public, or to the media upon request.

It provides a much smaller footprint compared to any stationary system. Yet it provides 100 percent access to Spacesaver’s mobile shelving units. They incorporate coatings and components that meet strict archive storage protection standards. Our powered mobile storage systems provide any degree of archival protection needed including:

  • Programmable opening and closing to facilitate air circulation. It also delivers maximum and equal flow of fire-suppression agents
  • Mobile carriages that ensure smooth acceleration and deceleration to minimize vibration
  • Non-contact sensors to automatically control the distance between aisles to protect stored materials.
  • Perforated shelving, uprights and end-panels that allow for maximum airflow. It also facilitates the flow of water in the event of a fire.
  • Links to facility security systems to limit damage in a fire or flood
  • Silicon gaskets to seal closed aisles
  • Low-level, automatically controlled overhead lighting

For archives that don’t require the space-saving benefits of a mobile storage unit, consider Spacesaver static shelving systems – including wide-span shelving – or our stand-alone museum-grade custom cabinets with drawers (including flat-file drawers), and trays.

We have the expertise and knowledge to help you design the perfect off-site collections storage facility. Our project managers bring years of experience to the table and are ready to provide support in every step of planning and building your space, from integrating special collections storage products to high-bay shelving.

Let’s begin this journey together so we can create an efficient and secure solution for your needs.

Accessible whenever needed.  We can provide archival storage for Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Ashland, Richmond, Newport News, Williamsburg, Hampton, Glen Allen, Chesterfield, Goochland, Fredericksburg, and Central and Eastern Virginia

Features and Benefits of Archive Storage

  • Art Storage Racks Benefits
  • Easy Visibility
  • Increase Collections
  • Maximize Storage Capacity

COUNTY ARCHIVES

Running out of space for county archives records storage Are you a county worker looking to increase your work storage space? County government archives store modern and historic documents l

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Archival on Campus

Discover 10 highly effective storage options for your college campus. As a vibrant and bustling hub of activity, college campuses can offer students countless resources to help them thrive.

GOVERNMENT STORAGE

Government offices and military installations have immense storage needs, responsible for housing a small city’s worth of gear, equipment, and weapons.

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Evidence Storage And Beyond

From evidence storage that protects the chain of custody, to personal storage lockers, to secure weapons storage, Spacesaver Storage Solutions has the answer for you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Archival Storage

What is archival storage?

Archival storage is a specialized storage solution designed to protect historical documents, manuscripts, photographs, maps, rare books, artifacts, and other valuable collections from environmental damage, dust, excessive handling, and deterioration. Spacesaver Storage Solutions provides archival storage systems that maximize capacity while helping preserve collections for future generations.

What types of organizations use archival storage systems?

Our archival storage solutions are ideal for:

  • Museums
  • Universities and colleges
  • Public and academic libraries
  • Historical societies
  • Government agencies
  • County courthouses
  • Corporate archives
  • Medical archives
  • Religious organizations
  • Cultural institutions

Why is high-density mobile shelving ideal for archives?

High-density mobile shelving eliminates unnecessary fixed aisles, allowing facilities to increase storage capacity by up to 100% within the same footprint while maintaining complete access to every collection. This makes it one of the most efficient archival storage solutions available.

How do archival storage systems protect valuable collections?

Spacesaver archival systems can include:

  • Smooth-operating mobile carriages that reduce vibration
  • Perforated shelving for improved airflow
  • Silicone aisle gaskets that reduce dust infiltration
  • Low-heat LED lighting
  • Integration with facility security systems
  • Programmable aisle openings to improve ventilation and fire suppression effectiveness
    These features help protect sensitive collections while improving accessibility.

What materials can be stored in archival storage systems?

Our systems are designed to safely store:

  • Historical documents
  • Rare books
  • Newspapers
  • Maps and architectural drawings
  • Photographs and negatives
  • Government records
  • Manuscripts
  • Microfilm and microfiche
  • Special collections
  • Museum archives

Do you offer archival flat file cabinets?

Yes. Spacesaver offers museum-quality archival flat file cabinets designed for maps, artwork, blueprints, oversized documents, posters, textiles, and other flat collections. Heavy-duty steel construction, smooth drawer operation, and non-off-gassing powder-coated finishes help support long-term preservation.

Can archival storage systems be customized?

Absolutely. Every archive has unique requirements. We design custom storage layouts using combinations of:

  • Mobile shelving
  • Static shelving
  • Flat file cabinets
  • Museum preservation cabinets
  • Wide-span shelving
  • High-bay shelving
  • Specialty collection storage

Can archival storage support future collection growth?

Yes. Our systems are designed with expansion in mind, allowing institutions to increase storage capacity as collections grow without requiring costly building additions. High-bay and mobile storage systems are especially effective for long-term growth planning.

Do archival storage systems help save space?

Yes. Many organizations reclaim 50% or more of their storage footprint by replacing conventional shelving with high-density mobile storage. This creates additional room for research areas, workspaces, exhibits, or future collections.

Can archival storage be used in off-site facilities?

Yes. Many museums, libraries, universities, and government agencies utilize off-site archival storage facilities equipped with high-bay shelving and mobile storage systems to safely preserve expanding collections while maximizing vertical space.

Does Spacesaver Storage Solutions provide archival storage throughout Virginia?

Yes. Spacesaver Storage Solutions designs, installs, and services archival storage systems throughout Virginia, including Richmond, Ashland, Glen Allen, Fredericksburg, Charlottesville, Williamsburg, Hampton Roads, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Newport News, Suffolk, Roanoke, and surrounding communities.

What is the difference between archival shelving and standard shelving?

Archival shelving is engineered specifically for long-term preservation. It uses durable finishes, precision construction, and preservation-friendly features that support sensitive collections, unlike standard shelving designed primarily for general storage.

Do you provide planning and design services?

Yes. Our experienced storage specialists assist with:

  • Space planning
  • Collection assessments
  • Storage capacity analysis
  • Custom system design
  • Installation
  • Relocation services
  • Ongoing maintenance and inspections

What archival storage products does Spacesaver Storage Solutions offer?

We provide a complete portfolio of archival storage solutions, including:

  • High-density mobile shelving
  • Powered mobile storage systems
  • Static archive shelving
  • Museum preservation cabinets
  • Archival flat file cabinets
  • High-bay shelving systems
  • Wide-span shelving
  • Custom collection storage solutions

How can I request an archival storage consultation?

Simply contact Spacesaver Storage Solutions to schedule a complimentary consultation. Our team will evaluate your facility, preservation requirements, collection growth, and available space to recommend the ideal archival storage solution for your organization.

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