This best recommended practice establishes air filtration guidelines for the removal of particulate and gaseous contaminants for the protection and long-term preservation of historical documents and artifacts in Libraries, Archives and Museums (LAMs). The recommendations in this guideline are considered by NAFA to be “best practice” in contrast to “minimum standards” put forth by other organizations. They serve to provide the conscientious Facility Manager with the necessary guidelines to make measurable differences of air quality in his/her building.

This best recommended practice identifies air quality issues associated with LAMs. It also establishes design criteria and performance specifications for new construction, as well as existing ventilation systems. This shall include methodology for contaminant removal by filtration and associated system maintenance.