What are the best resources for someone interested in book preservation?
I want to work in book preservation and I'm just not sure what resources are available. #books #preservation #conservation #library #special-collections
2 answers
Gregory’s Answer
Elaysha -- the best resources for someone interested in book preservation are those published by acknowledged experts in the field. Book preservation is a specialized field of study. I can suggest a few online resources to get you started, but you can also reach out to archives or libraries in your area. Most public libraries will not have an in-depth book preservation practice, but you never know. Depending on your location, the location university or college library may have a program to conserve books or other archival materials.
For online resources, check out the following links:
http://www.conservation-wiki.com/wiki/Book_%26_Paper -- the AIC wiki is run by the American Institute for Conversation of Art and Historic Works.
http://www.loc.gov/preservation/care/books.html -- the Library of Congress offers some tips on the basics of preservation and conservation.
http://www.artic.edu/research/book-preservation -- the Art Institute of Chicago has a helpful web site that introduces you to the basics of preservation.
Gregory recommends the following next steps:
Chuck D'Ambrosi
Chuck’s Answer
I can't add much to the expert advice already given, but I want to suggest that perhaps you may find more kindred spirits in a European city than in the USA. You would need to research this if interested, because I may be wrong. It's a hunch based on the cultural differences. Education, literacy, and books are more highly valued in Europe so I suspect there may be more practicing book preservationists there as well. Not to mention their treasure trove of some very, very old books and manuscripts!
Sincerely,
Charles
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