Librarians, archivists, and others have observed the deterioration of paper in various collections. They have expressed their concern and indicated the need for paper with greater permanence than that which has been produced over the last 50 or more years. Various organizations having responsibility for developing standard specifications and test methods have responded. There are a variety of paper products and the characteristics are defined by the specifications that they have developed. They generally describe alkaline-sized paper, often with an alkaline reserve such as calcium carbonate. Testing methods for permanence involve determination of retention of various strength characteristics following dry or moist heat treatment. The paper industry is market driven and as the needs become apparent, the products will be made available.