Conservation work is divided into two categories: preventive conservation and remedial conservation.
Preventive conservation
This involves applying methods to reduce the risk of damage and deterioration while items are in store or are being used. Preventive conservation involves activities such as:
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Monitoring the environment in the stores and reading room for heat and humidity which accelerate the decay of paper collections
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Checking for pests in our stores, such as silverfish which feed on paper collections
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Boxing manuscripts, rare books and other items in archival boxes to protect from dust, light and buffer changes in environmental conditions
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Training staff in correct handling practices to minimise damage
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Packing and transporting Special Collections material safely
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Monitoring light levels for material on display to reduce fading of pigments and inks
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Advising colleagues on standards for care of collections, for example in designing new storage facilities
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Emergency preparedness, knowing how to react in the event of a disaster such as a burst pipe or fire that could threaten our collections.
Remedial conservation
Remedial conservation is the cleaning, treatment and repair of items, done either to make them useable again or so that they look their best for exhibition or reproduction. This work is carried out in our conservation studio, fitted with specialist equipment.