This invention relates to solutions of selected organo-metallic compounds dissolved in an organic solvent which are useful for deacidifying a cellulose fiber paper. The paper is treated by means well known in the art, such as dipping or spraying. The organo-metallic compounds useful in this invention are compounds which may be rapidly hydrolyzed to an alkaline material such as lower alkyl compounds of lithium, aluminum, magnesium, gallium, zinc, and mixtures of these compounds. The organic solvent is a liquid which will not react with the organo-metallic compound, dissolve inks, or cause discoloration of other materials usually found in and around printed matter. After the paper is impregnated with the solution the organo-metallic compound remaining on the paper is hydrolyzed to an alkline material.