few tips to keep in mind: If selecting books, make sure they are printed on the highest quality paper.

Remember that newspapers are highly acidic and quickly deteriorate as well as contribute to the deterioration of other items. Newspapers should be photocopied onto archival quality paper to ensure longevity; Black and white photos are more stable than colour prints. To keep photos from sticking together, interleave photos with archival quality photo envelopes.

Place each item in an archival quality envelope, folder or other container or wrap each item in acid-free tissue. Label each enclosure with pencil; Select a container that is non-rusting, leak-proof and durable and remember seals are critical; Document the time capsule -- label the exterior and create a lists of the contents. One copy should go inside the capsule and at least one list should be filed; Use cotton gloves when handling the items prior to insertion. Oil on your fingers can cause corrosion; Don't include unstable items which may gas. Rubber releases sulphur gas; wood must be sealed away from metal objects or electronic equipment; polyethylene can permeate moisture as it ages so it must be placed in a water-proof container; PVC will break down and release acids; film releases ammonia which will cause deterioration, foodstuff decompose and will cause cross-contamination; Photocopies using stable quality processes (no colour) produced on archival quality photocopy paper should hold up well; Remember to include information about how the various items were created.

Include instructions on how to use equipment; Describe the colour, composition of each article, just in case your capsule fails the test of time; Use paper with a pH of 6.0 to 8.5, alkaline buffered, lignin and sulphur free; and Use archival quality adhesives.