The conservation lab is a state-of-the-art facility where treatment procedures to the Library’s map, manuscript, book and photograph collections are performed. Treatment proposals take into account the structure of the paper, bindings and applied emulsion layers, inks and pigments.

Paper conservation techniques rely on the conservator’s strong powers of observation and practical knowledge of historical papermaking and printmaking technology, early ink, dye and pigment formulation and use, and how they react under a variety of conditions.

Our Conservation Lab is fully equipped to allow for a wide range of treatment options reflecting current advances in the conservation field. The conservator uses a variety of tools, some exquisitely simple and direct, and others that are state-of-the art technology. Items from the visual, manuscript and printed collections are surveyed, cleaned, repaired, and stabilized by a staff reflecting over 30 years of experience. Additionally, the Department strives to promote the long-term stability of its collections (often called preventative conservation) through correct storage, display and environmental conditions. As part of this strategy, we have an Integrated Pest Management plan in place which provides staff safety and insures our collections remain insect and mold free.

OUTREACH

Under the umbrella of the Historic Document Preservation program, our outreach program offers a variety of services to non-profit organizations and the public:

• Workshops teaching preservation concepts and basic treatments of paper-based objects.
• One-on-one consultations with members of the public and their family heirlooms.
• Collection Assessments (CAP surveys in association with Heritage Preservation, Washington, D.C.) for small local history societies and museums.
• For advice and referral service, call 234-0093 or email us.
• Conservation staff develops guidelines to meet professional standards required by our collection. Small museums, historical societies or special collection libraries and archives may find these useful, and are described here.
  
  Outline of a Preservation Plan
  The Collection Condition Survey Program
  Handling Collection Material Books
  

Additional Useful Links

• What's new in the lab
• Local History Services Department
• Glossary of preservation terminology
• List of conservators serving Indiana residents and institutions
• Suppliers of preservation and archival materials.