A neat-looking box shows everyone that the contents are well cared for. Here are some labels prepared for a collection going to the Harvard Depository.

The label-holders need to be rubbed down hard with a folding implement to make them secure.

We print box labels on sheets of acid-free folder stock. For multi- box collections we use Avery 5911, perforated business cards.

The barcode is applied to card stock label and inserted into the plastic label holder.

Boxes that are going to H.D. require a small piece of tape over the open edge. This keeps the label from falling out during transport. The tape should not touch the surface of the box, so that it can be easily removed if necessary.

Lately, we’ve found clear label protectors that are cut in half produce neater, more consistent results than tape.

The label protector strip should be rubbed down thoroughly with a teflon or bone folder.

We no longer use this kind of tape for box labels, because it doesn’t always tear in a straight line. We use this only for reinforcing the bottoms of Paige boxes, or for torn label holders.

This is an example of a torn label holder. A large piece of tape can be placed over the entire torn end to strengthen it. It would then be rubbed down, and re-cut along the opening.

Plastic label holders facilitate temporary labeling while collections are being end-processed. This makes for an easy work flow. (For the same reasons, catalogers use large removable labels on boxes (see Paige box below) when they prepare a collection for end-processing. The box is not defaced when the label is removed.)

We sometimes use the scrap backing of the adhesive label-holders for temporary labels. We fold them in half to make them close to the right size, and then leave excess at the opening in order to be able to remove them quickly and easily. Or sometimes use wasted Avery perforated labels. We’ve found that post-its fall off too easily.

Using label holders incorrectly affects workflow, wastes expensive supplies, and defaces boxes. Here are some examples of how label holders are misunderstood and misused.

HD HOU sticker has been mistakenly placed on the outside surface of the plastic label holder instead of on the card stock label. This obscures the barcode that lay underneath the surface of the plastic label holder.

Graffiti and ripped labels send the wrong message to everyone. This is only a mildly defaced box.

Thank you.