DEAR SUN SPOTS: My daughter has an extensive collection of Cabbage Patch dolls that she has been collecting for the past 21 years. Some are newer than others, and many were “rescued” from Salvation Army and Goodwill.

I am storing these for her and would like suggestions on how to store them so they are protected from dampness. — Lisa, [email protected]

ANSWER: To keep the dampness down, you could use the silica packs, such as the ones you get with handbags, shoes and other such purchases. Whenever she buys something, Sun Spots saves the silica in an airtight container for possible reuse.

Of course, dampness is only one issue. Sunlight and dust are others. Sun Spots found the following guidelines on storing vintage dolls at ehow.com.

“Examine the dolls and their clothing with clean hands to ensure they are clean and free of dust before storage. Use a clean soft cloth for dusting. A damp cloth may be used to clean the body. Remove any bright colored ribbons, tags or clothing that might discolor the skin of the dolls during storage. Also remove any rubber bands as they grow brittle over time and can discolor your dolls.

“Wrap the dolls in acid-free tissue paper and place them in individual acid-free boxes. Dolls with closing eyes should be stored face down to prevent the eyes from falling into the head. Place removed jewelry or clothing in an acid-free bag and put into the box with the doll.

“Store the doll boxes in a closet or cabinet of a room with moderate temperatures of 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit and a low humidity of 50 to 60 percent. The storage area should be out of bright sunlight. Use cedar or mothballs only if absolutely necessary to keep bugs away but do not let them come into direct contact with the dolls.

“Check the dolls periodically to allow them to air out. Consider rotating your collection regularly keeping a number on display and others in storage.”

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Thank you for the wonderful job that you do. I enjoy reading your column every day? Could you tell me if there is a location in the Lewiston-Auburn area where I can take personal documents to be shredded? I heard on the radio that some banks offer this free of charge but it was in the Portland area. Thank you for your help. — Norm Labbe, Minot

ANSWER: Security Shredding in Greene offers that service. You can check out their services at www.securityshredding.biz. Their contact information is 1268 Route 202, Greene, ME 04236, 946-2319, [email protected].

Sun Spots does not know of any free shredding services. Perhaps readers will. One technique Sun Spots uses is to burn hers in her wood stove. Old bills make excellent fire starter, and the process is somewhat cathartic.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: For the past several years, at a glass-front warehouse or storefront-type building that sits just over the Lewiston town line in Greene, sit two “electric trams.” They do not appear to have moved in all the time that they have sat there. Can Sun Spots tell me who owns them and what the plans are for their future use, if any? — No Name via email

ANSWER: Sun Spots does not know, but she is pretty sure a reader will respond.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Your column is awesome, and I thank you for having it available to readers. I would like to know if anyone has a collection of buttons they would be willing to give up. I will be more than happy to pay a reasonable amount. — Gloria, Greene, 946-4436

This column is for you, our readers. It is for your questions and comments. There are only two rules: You must write to the column and sign your name (we won’t use it if you ask us not to). Please include your phone number. Letters will not be returned or answered by mail, and telephone calls will not be accepted. Your letters will appear as quickly as space allows. Address them to Sun Spots, P.O. Box 4400, Lewiston, ME 04243-4400. Inquiries can also be emailed to [email protected].