...
Many people outside the library world might think have thought a manuscript is either a stack of 8 ½” x 11” papers, a bound medieval text, or a rolled or framed parchment of some sort. But these days manuscripts also exist on computer disks and devices. Many people might also think that labelling labeling and storing manuscripts such things would not require much effort. People often think they are skilled enough already, and could do it quickly without needing advice: probably better than anyone else. How hard could it be to get some folders and stick a label on them? Or to keep track of a document in a database. The trouble is that there are many unpredictable aspects to end-processing (labeling) and storing manuscript collections, and challenging logistics behind labelling labeling and housing them to be continually overcome. The trouble is, these items must be handled wisely and retrievable. Obstacles arise from all directions. Effort from every region of the brain is required to overcome them. Consulting Keeping a manual may help.
1It is hard to describe the variety found in manuscripts. They can be bound volumes, or boxes of folders that might also contain anything from silver, coins, & clothing, to eyeglasses, matches, even a fried egg. Houghton Library collections include: handcuffs, swords, artwork, pressed flowers, photographs, death masks, scrapbooks, a light bulb, medieval texts, an asbestos tile, musical scores, audio tapes, playing cards, jigsaw puzzles, and human hair, to name a few. Whatever happens to have been stored with an author’s papers can make it into the library to become part of our collections. A collection can range from hundreds of boxes purchased by the library from an author’s estate, to a scrapbook of autograph letters donated by some collector. A manuscript, such as a journal, or an illuminated sheet, can also arrive as a single item, independently of any collection, whether it is a gift or a purchase.
...