The Unique Challenges of Book conservators: When Preservation Meets Access in the World of Books and Paper

 

Never pull the book from the top edge of the spine!

    Books are complex objects with multiple compounds (paper, leather, wood, inks, adhesives, bindings … etc.) each requiring specific treatment approaches, that is why book and archival materials conservators face numerous challenges in their work to preserve the world written and printed heritage. However, I would like to hit a very interesting and unique challenge for book and paper conservators! Their work often has a different "end goal" compared to conservators working with other types of artifacts. While artifacts in museums often find a final resting place behind glass cases or in controlled storage, protected from the wear and tear of human interaction, books, and manuscripts occupy a liminal space between preservation and use. This difference deeply shapes our work and underscores the dual responsibility we carry.

The Unique Lifecycle of Books, Manuscripts, and Archival Materials

Unlike museum artifacts that are preserved primarily for observation, books and archival materials are created to be used. Even after undergoing conservation, they often return to their intended function, whether that is being read by researchers or serving as reference points for scholars. This return to use is not merely symbolic; it is integral to the identity of these objects.

Here's a breakdown of why this is such a significant factor:

·       Use vs. Preservation

The inherent nature of books and documents is to be used for the information they contain. While - for instance - a ceramic pot or a painting might be primarily appreciated for its aesthetic or historical value, books are meant to be read and interacted with.

Conserved manuscripts and books are frequently handled by researchers. Each interaction, no matter how careful, poses a risk to the object's longevity. Conservators must mitigate these risks through education and by establishing protocols that limit unnecessary handling while allowing necessary access.

·       Structural Integrity and Functionality

Conservation treatments must address not only the preservation of the material but also its functionality. A book must be able to open without damaging its spine, and pages must be turned without risking tears. Achieving this balance often requires innovative solutions tailored to the individual object.

·       The "Ideal" of Access

Libraries and archives strive to make information accessible to the public. This means that even rare and fragile books and documents might be consulted by researchers, creating wear and tear.

·       Environmental Considerations

Libraries and reading rooms, where these materials are returned post-conservation, often have less stringent environmental controls than museum storage areas. Conservators must account for this reality by implementing preventive measures such as protective enclosures, custom supports, and clear handling guidelines.

·       Digitization is Not an Answer

While digitization and microfilming offer valuable alternatives, they can't fully replace the original. Researchers often need to examine the physical object for details like paper type, watermarks, binding structure, and annotations, which can be crucial for textual analysis, historical research, and bibliographic studies.

·       Ethical Considerations

Book and paper conservators must balance the desire to preserve the object with the need to make it accessible for research and learning. This can lead to difficult decisions about treatment options and access restrictions.

Moving Forward: Recommendations for the Field

To enhance our ability to balance preservation with use, the following steps are recommended:

1.     Advancing Materials Research: Continued investment in research on conservation-grade materials and techniques that enhance the durability of treated objects without compromising their authenticity is essential.

2.      Improved Storage and Handling Policies: Collaboration with librarians and archivists to design storage solutions and handling protocols that minimize risks is critical. These measures should include custom book cradles, and controlled access policies.

3.     Education and Advocacy: Educating researchers on the importance of proper handling and the rationale behind conservation decisions fosters a shared sense of responsibility for preserving heritage.

4.     Expanding Digital Access: While physical interaction will always be necessary to some degree, expanding high-quality digital access to materials can reduce the frequency of handling. Integrating advanced imaging technologies to capture features like texture and ink depth can further support research needs.

In conclusion, book and paper conservators occupy a unique position within the conservation field. The objects we work with are not just treasures of the past but also tools for the present and future. This dual role demands a delicate balance between preservation and accessibility, requiring a thoughtful approach that recognizes the inherent value of both. By continuing to innovate and advocate for best practices, we can ensure that these cultural artifacts remain both protected and accessible for generations to come.

As a conservator of this heritage, we must never lose sight of the ultimate goal: to preserve not just the physical materials, but also the knowledge, stories, and insights they carry, ensuring their legacy endures in both the archives and the hands of those who seek to learn from them.