Does UBC Preservation offer basic collection care recommendations?

It’s inevitable that books and other information resources will deteriorate over time. However, there are several simple steps that can help extend the life of a collection, including proper shelving and handling practices, food and beverage control, pest management, and prompt response to water damage. This UBC Library Collections Care document provides an introduction to basic preservation recommendations.

Can UBC Preservation repair my family heirloom or rare book?

Due to staffing and program priorities, the UBC Preservation Unit is only able to treat materials held in UBC Library collections and does not have the capacity to accept privately owned items for repair or conservation.

Can UBC Preservation recommend a private local conservator or bookbinder to restore the item?

To find a conservator in your area, consult the directory maintained by the Canadian Association of Professional Conservators (CAPC), which can be searched by city and specialization.

CAPC also provides resources on selecting and working with a conservator.

To find a bookbinder or book repair specialist, please visit the Canadian Bookbinders and Book Artists Guild (CBBAG) for conservation and repair resources.

Does UBC Preservation teach bookbinding, book repair, conservation, or collection care?

Not at this time. For bookbinding workshops, the Canadian Bookbinders and Book Artists Guild Lower Mainland chapter maintains an up-to-date list of both in-person and online workshops.

UBC Preservation may occasionally offer presentations or outreach sessions related to collections care, which will be listed on the UBC Library events calendar.

Can UBC Preservation provide preservation advice for small community archives or personal collections?

UBC Preservation may be able to offer informal preservation guidance for small community archives or personal collections, depending on staff availability. Please contact the Conservator at 604-822-3441 to discuss your request.

Does UBC Preservation offer tours of the Conservation Space?

At this time, the Conservation Space is not open for public tours.

Does UBC Preservation have any resources or advice about preparing for or responding to a library or collections disaster (e.g. fire, flood, etc.)?

UBC Preservation may be able to provide general advice about collections emergencies or disaster response by phone or email, depending on staff availability. Please contact the Conservator at 604-822-3441 for more information.

The BC Heritage Emergency Response Network (BC HERN) offers training, resources, and emergency support for cultural institutions and collections affected by disasters or localized emergencies.

For collections emergencies, contact the Canadian Conservation Institute (CCI) 24-hour emergency response line at 1-866-998-3721.