Cistern restoration

Im a freelance writer researching a story for Harrowsmith Country Life magazine on cistern restoration. Im looking for suggestions on what a typical homeowner can do to restore a basement rainwater cistern to usefulness. Is a coat of waterproofing paint all thats required, or are plastic liners the best bet? Also, how do people deal with the added dampness in the basement, and how do they prevent wildlife from drowning in their cistern? I can be reached at [email protected]. If you have advice, please let me know how I can contact you by e-mail or telephone. Thanks