Our purpose is to preserve, protect, and thereby extend the usable life of the NYU Libraries’ collections. We pursue this objective in accordance with the mission and goals of the Libraries, and in conjunction with nationally recognized standards.

Activities

• Library and Archives Conservation

In the Barbara Goldsmith Book & Paper Conservation Laboratory we examine, document, treat, and house NYU Libraries’ special collections materials following the American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice (opens in a new window)

• Media Preservation

Through assessment, research, treatment, and preservation reformatting, we care for NYU Libraries’ film, video, and audio materials held in the special collections. We inspect collections to determine condition and provide recommendations on long-term care. Our in-house video and audio preservation facilities enable staff to create preservation master files and access copies.

• Preventive Conservation

Our program for NYU Libraries’ special collections, led by the Preventive Conservator, includes collection assessment, handling and care training, housing complex archival materials, environmental monitoring, emergency preparedness and response, and integrated pest management.

• Circulating Collections Care

Our care for NYU Libraries’ circulating collections includes commercial binding, boxing, mass deacidification, preservation photocopying, integrated pest management, emergency preparedness and response, and handling and care training.

• Education and Outreach

Our department collaborates with faculty and students from the Moving Image Archiving and Preservation (MIAP) program, (opens in a new window) as well as the Institute of Fine Arts-Conservation Center. (opens in a new window) The Barbara Goldsmith Book & Paper Conservation Laboratory hosts workshops for professional organizations. We develop preservation resources (opens in a new window) for NYU’s library collections across the globe.