Library’s £12.5million conservation centre
Andrew Brightwell
WITH one of the world's largest collections of rare and ancient books, the British Library has an uphill struggle to keep its priceless collection in good repair.
Now, in a bid to improve the upkeep of it all, the library in Euston Road has filed an application with Camden Council for a three-storey, £12.5million conservation centre.
It will include a sound archive and visitors' centre to educate the public on the complex techniques used to conserve the nation's literary heritage.
John Mumford, head of book conservation at the library, said that repair work was currently done at the British Museum, which was inadequate for the task.
He said: "The building we are in at the moment is early 19th century. While we have the equipment we need here, our conservation techniques require controls on temperature and humidity and as you can see that is impossible here.
"The ancient building was built on the site of a stable and, while the bindery is probably slightly less draughty, it is still chilly on a miserable day."
Vicki Humphrey, head of conservation at the British Library, said it was too risky to transport the library's greatest treasures over from Euston to the British Museum.
She said: "In terms of the good of the collection we would like better accommodation."
The team's highly skilled work ranges from rebinding books, to seemingly miraculous repair of ancient paper.
One of the key tools is a machine that reconstitutes paper, by forcing wet pulp through the damaged piece.
Mr Mumford said: "People are very surprised that we can make the paper wet but we are meticulous in checking the inks in the paper and making sure that it won't be damaged."
The new centre would also include facilities for training conservators.
Catherine Atkinson, the library's head of conservation training and development, said: "We have to find around four new conservators each year.
"Degree courses in the UK cater for conservators but we are concerned that they have become much more academic and seem to have less emphasis on the skills required.
"We plan to work with the academic institutions so students will come here to learn the practical skills."
andrew.brightwell@hamhigh.co.uk
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