Archival Storage Systems

When collections grow and storage space stays the same, it might be time to rethink your off-site storage system.

Preserve more items, for longer

Rare books, diaries, historical records, newspapers, blueprints, maps, and more need the right kind of protection. Libraries, off-site book depositories, and archival records centers are constantly receiving more of these book collections and archives, and need a solution for fitting them into a space-maximizing storage space.
One way to create additional space in the same footprint is to utilize vertical space. XTend High Bay Shelving systems were designed for stable off-site storage for things like book trays and boxed archival records. They provide high space efficiency and protection, while making it easy to access collections. XTend creates additional storage by maximizing vertical space and eliminating empty aisles.

Archival Storage System Options

Stationary XTend High-Bay Shelving System

Make the most of vertical space in your off-site warehouse by implementing a high-bay shelving system that spans up to 35 feet high. This static archival storage system is easy to use, and functions similarly to traditional bookshelves.

Mobile XTend High-Bay Shelving System

X-Tend High-Bay shelves can be combined with mobile carriages to create an archival storage system that can double the storage capacity of stationary shelving. It also maximizes square footage by eliminating static aisles, just like static shelving.

System Offerings & Product Details

Both systems offer protection for your valuable media, along with strength and durability. These systems were made for a variety of uses, with high flexibility and adjustability for a future-proofed solution. They also offer a greater storage density with 100% accessibility to your items.
Our archival storage systems have the following features:
  • Long-lasting polyester powder-coat paint that does not off-gas
  • Fire loss protection with side shelf supports, shelf backstops, upright baffle closure panels and flue space
    • Construction also exceeds the most stringent NARA fire suppression standards
  • Strong shelves made from reinforced cold-rolled steel box-formed construction that can be easily adjusted vertically without tools
  • Smooth surfaces for easily sliding archive boxes or book trays

Applications

Libraries & Universities

Campus libraries are adding more and more hands-on learning opportunities including language labs, writing centers, makerspaces, and meeting rooms to support the needs of today’s student learning needs. Because of this change in learning, libraries must meet the needs of their communities. Libraries are searching for ways to have both a collection of physical books and materials, while also having enough space to incorporate these new learning areas.
The solution is storing slow-moving items in high-bay storage. Books that haven’t been checked out for years can be carefully cataloged, boxed, and moved to an off-site storage facility. The resulting space can then be used for the more modern amenities like technology, meeting spaces, labs, classrooms, or makerspaces.

Police Departments

Storing evidence takes up a lot of room, and it continues to accumulate every day. Just like a library needs to protect and preserve its book collection, a police department needs to take care of its ever-growing “collection” of evidence. It’s so important for police departments to be able to provide a secure chain of custody so that evidence is always handled and stored properly. Any doubt about the integrity of a piece of evidence can lead to criminals walking free and crimes going unpunished.
To ensure space for all evidence while maintaining a secure chain of custody, consider implementing a high-bay storage system. This means departments no longer have to build new facilities or share existing ones, which can result in more security systems, storage systems, and staff.

Museums

Collection items on exhibit take up only a small portion (about 2-3%) of the footprint of a typical museum facility. Most collections objects are stored behind the scenes, in secure, climate-controlled preservation spaces, unless they’re brought out for exhibition or research. The recent change and growth in collections means most museums are continually acquiring new objects. Recent trends include conversations toward more diverse and inclusive collecting policies. For instance, who decides what items are worthy of being collected? This, of course, drives the need for even more storage.

Interested in learning more about our high-bay mobile shelving solutions?

Contact a storage expert today.