Book Conservators: Job Description, Education, Skills and Duties, Earnings and Outlook
Submitted by: paula
Job Overview Books can last hundreds of years if they are properly preserved. Most books in museums, libraries and special conservation centers had been there for many years and can still be used. Book conservators have the knowledge to preserve books that have been crafted traditionally. They use technologically advanced binding techniques, adhesives and papers to make sure that books created hundreds of years ago can still be used for another hundred years.
Education,Knowledge and Trainings Required
Strong background in Chemistry, History, Mathematics, Art, Literature and Foreign Languages are needed when pursuing a career as book conservators. Internships and apprenticeships were offered in the past for training in book conservation. Now, the primary training needed for this field is graduate programs. Most of the students earn a Bachelor’s degree in Art History, Arts or Fine Arts to enter this field. Undergraduate degrees are offered in school which includes classes in conservation and preservation. Academic institutions have Art Conservation Department which offer programs in book conservation in graduate school. Particular projects and positions may require certification which can be obtained at the Academy of Certified Archivists.
Skills and Abilities
It is important that book conservators have good knowledge in bookmaking. Creativity is greatly needed since the applicant should know how to visualize the end product before starting to work. It is essential that they know how to conserve the materials that they will be using as well as know how to solve problems related to their work. They need to be careful when working since they will use sharp instruments like paper cutters, knives and awls.
Duties
The main purpose of book conservator is to preserve original books and materials to pass knowledge to the future generation.
Most books that had been damaged because of accident, misuse, pests, normal wear and tear are repaired by book conservators. It is part of the duty to inspect the book or material to be restored and know the cause and the extent of the deterioration. They should consider the history of the material before deciding on how to treat them. They need to consider the repairs that had been made to the item over the years. When preserving a book, they think of the future and current use of the book.
Earnings and Job Outlook
Most of the book conservators are self-employed or work part time. Their geographical location as well as their skill determines their salary. The new technology in book printing is not a threat when it comes to job availability in this field. This is a growing field and have a strong competition for applicants. Book conservation can integrate more advanced technology in conservation of books. They can work in large corporations, libraries, institutions, conservation organizations and government agencies.
Paula Hiz is a researcher and a human resource specialist who helps newly graduates, job applicants and post graduate professionals be aware of their job opportunities and available trainings for skills and practice upgrading.
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