The Preservation Criteria

Preservation criteria refer to the standards or guidelines used to determine whether something valuable—such as a building, document, or artifact—should be protected or restored. These criteria consider factors like historical significance, condition, uniqueness, and potential for future benefit. The goal is to preserve items that have cultural, historical, or artistic importance, ensuring they remain accessible and meaningful for future generations. Essentially, the criteria help professionals decide what’s worth saving based on its importance and the best way to maintain its integrity over time.