DIN ISO 11799:2026-10

Requirements for the storage of archive and library materials

DIN ISO 11799 specifies requirements for the long-term storage of archive and library materials. It describes specifications for the planning, construction, equipment and operation of storage buildings and repositories in order to protect documents and cultural heritage materials permanently and preserve their usability over the long term. The standard takes into account structural, technical and organizational measures as well as aspects of sustainability and collection preservation.

What is DIN ISO 11799 about?

The standard defines requirements for buildings and storage areas used for the preservation of archive and library materials. The focus is on suitable environmental conditions, construction and safety requirements, and measures to protect against moisture, fire, light and pollutants. In addition, the standard describes requirements for planning, risk assessment, monitoring and maintenance of storage repositories and storage facilities.

Topics covered

• Long-term storage of archive and library materials
• Planning and construction of storage buildings and repositories
• Risk assessment and hazard analysis
• Environmental conditions, climate control and monitoring
• Fire protection, burglary protection and emergency preparedness
• Pest management and collection preservation
• Sustainable operation of archives and libraries

Practical relevance

The long-term preservation of documents, books, records, photographs and other information carriers places high demands on storage and environmental conditions. DIN ISO 11799 supports archives, libraries and other memory institutions in minimizing risks to their collections and creating suitable storage conditions for sustainable collection preservation.

Changes compared with DIN ISO 11799:2017-04

The 2026 edition takes into account new international standards and technical reports on collection preservation and the storage of archive and library materials. In addition, the requirements and recommendations for the planning, construction and operation of storage facilities have been expanded and described in greater detail.

Target group

• Archives and archive operators
• Libraries
• Professionals responsible for collection preservation and cultural heritage protection
• Architects and specialist planners
• Facility managers
• Operators of depots and storage buildings
• Restorers and conservators
• Organizations with long-term documentation and retention obligations

Conclusion

DIN ISO 11799 provides a comprehensive basis for the safe and sustainable storage of archive and library materials. It supports institutions in creating suitable storage conditions, reducing risks to their collections and ensuring the long-term preservation of valuable documents and cultural heritage materials.

This document replaces DIN ISO 11799:2017-04 .