Wear and tear on books is inevitable, and most libraries perform some minor repairs on their damaged materials. Despite good intentions, some materials and procedures used in book repairs can shorten the useful life of the book and make it harder to open and use. If done properly, however, book repairs are an effective preservation activity.

This day-long workshop will teach staff members how to perform simple, economical, and preservation-quality repairs on materials in general circulating and reference collections. The sessions will focus on techniques that (1) are most often needed in libraries, (2) do not require expensive equipment and supplies, and (3) can be performed successfully by clerical or student staff after a short training period. The workshop will not teach techniques for repairing materials that are special, rare, or archival.

Audience: The workshop is designed primarily for staff members who actually perform book repairs in libraries, but it will also be useful for those who supervise repair units. No prior preservation training will be presumed. A maximum of 25 individuals from PALMCOP MEMBER institutions will be accepted, so each person can receive individual attention.

Content: The workshop will include lectures, discussions, demonstrations, and hands-on practice. The following repair procedures will be taught in small-group modules through demonstrations and practice:

Tightening hinges when textblocks are pulling away from the cover;

Replacing torn endsheets;

Replacing torn and damaged spines;

Mending paper;

Tipping and hinging pages into bound volumes;

Paper cleaning.