The historical context
The Library of Congress’s digital-photograph guidance recommends maintaining copies in separate locations and checking that files remain readable. Apply that principle to your historical collection with a clear inventory of what has been copied and when. A second folder on the same device is not the same thing as a separate storage location.
A clearer way to read the evidence
Choose a routine you can maintain and record the result of each check. Keep original files distinct from edited display versions so recovery does not depend on guessing which copy is authoritative. This article is an organisational introduction, not a guarantee that any particular storage product will prevent loss. The useful habit is to make the state of the collection visible and review it regularly.
Keep in your notes
- Maintain a copy inventory.
- Use separate storage locations.
- Check readability on a schedule.