Care and Handling of Branch CDs
by Jim Gaffney
Many years ago an article was published in the newsletter about the care and handling of Branch records. With the help of Siân Frick (who has spent a considerable amount of time), the Branch has begun the conversion to CDs and has invested hundreds of dollars on new CDs. Now is a good time to review the care and handling of CDs.
Everyone by now has CDs of their own, and this subject should not be alien to most. However, a review maybe helpful. When originally introduced, record companies stated that CDs were more indestructible than records. This was a good marketing ploy -- but not entirely correct. Severe surface scratches and dirt can make the CD skip, jump or "CD stutter" when reading a track. Small surface scratches can sometimes be cleaned with a special cleaner that will actually fill in the scratch with a scratch filler, but this does not work for large scratches.
To handle a CD, place the index finger on the central spindle of the jewel case and pull up the edge of the CD with your thumb. This will make it easier to pop the CD out. Carry the CD by placing the index finger inside the central hole and thumb on the edge of the CD. This method should be used when inserting and removing from the player tray.
If any CD is damaged or has significant scratches on it please contact Siân Frick so the CD can be cleaned with a special cleaner or replaced if necessary. If the CD must be cleaned during class, use a soft dry cloth (if really dirty wet the cloth with water only). Clean in strokes from the center out to the outer edge. Do not rub the disk in a circular pattern as if you are cleaning a dinner plate. Broken jewel cases should also be reported to Siân Frick.
Handling CDs with care will extend the life of the CD collection and save the Branch money on replacements.
CD Conversion Project
Conversion of old records to CDs has begun this summer and will continue until winter. For those who have copies of old records, you can obtain a backup copy on a CD for $3.50 for Branch members and $5 for non-members. If you would like a complete listing of what is available, what is proposed for the entire project and an order form contact jgaffney@astea.com or 610-356-3910. This is a backup service only: you must own a copy of the records desired. All orders are taken on a first come, first served basis.