What is preservation and what is restoration?

  1. PRESERVATION / ARCHIVAL is preservation of images / sound without manipulation. This could mean simply subjecting the best original element to highest quality long term storage conditions available. And further, funds permitting, production of best quality duplicate copies placed in highest quality long term storage conditions, which are completely separate and removed from the location of the original elements.
  2. RESTORATION is the correction of unintended defects which exist in an available original element so as to enable a best possible reproduction of the original viewing experience.
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Donate to support our programs

Help us establish a long-term endowment for the foundation and to expand our programs.


Checks should be made out to The Metro Theatre Center Foundation and mailed to: P.O. Box 427418, San Francisco, CA 94142-7418.
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Donate $25 today and receive an "I'm a Preservation Project Partner" button. Or donate $50 or more and receive a "I'm a Preservation Project Partner" T-shirt.