This paperback book presents guidelines and procedures whereby the lay person can protect and preserve family heirlooms such as papers, books, photographs, textiles, furniture, glass, and ceramics. The importance of heirlooms in maintaining a link with one's past is pointed out. The effects on artifacts of relative humidity, temperature, dust, pollutants, and light are described, as are ways of minimizing these effects. The value of using archival materials for protecting papers, photographs, and textiles is explained. Damage from pests, rodents, mold, and mildew is described, and ways to prevent this are given. The proper handling of objects is described. Improper repair materials are identified, and advice is given for determining when a professional conservator should be engaged. Practical advice on the storage, display, and routine care of an heirloom is presented. Sources for further professional advice and for archival materials are listed.