This isn't strictly speaking a PDF but just a webpage, but it gives you that same sort of look into the not-quite-boring nitty-gritty of a very particular subculture:
The Rachel Barton Pine Foundation's rules for care of loaned instruments.
The violins used by high-level soloists can be extremely expensive, but professional violinist is generally not a big-money career, so a lot of the instruments are actually owned by fine arts foundations that loan them out to players they deem worthy. I don't know what exactly the Rachel Barton Pine Foundation owns, but here's an article about them acquiring a $4 million* Stradivarius from 1732, so that gives you an idea.
So what are the rules for taking care of a multi-million-dollar instrument that doesn't belong to you? A sampling:
- It may never be exposed to direct sunlight, even through a window.
- Do not touch the varnish. You may only hold it by the neck or the hardware.
- Do not allow the TSA to touch or swab the instrument. Cancel your flight if necessary.
- Always book an aisle seat so you can make sure no one puts their luggage on top of your violin case. Ask to board the flight early so you can stow your violin undisturbed. If anyone tries to make you gate-check the violin, cancel your flight.
- When you go to the bathroom anywhere but your own home or hotel room, you take the violin with you.
- Yes, even if your friends are right there. They may be "tempted towards sabotage."
- Never carry the violin up or down stairs outside of its case.
- "Be cautious of slipperiness on the floor caused by leftover condensation from wind and brass players."
I don't disagree with any of these rules, but... oh my god, the anxiety.