Practical, authoritative preservation information is provided through its manual, Preservation of Library and Archival Materials. The American Association of Museums has taken over the distribution of the manual. The Paper Conservation Department is staffed by seven professional conservators and provides treatment for works of art on paper, photographs, maps, documents, over-sized materials, and other flat paper objects. Paper conservation procedures include cleaning, removal of deteriorated or destructive backings or repairs, washing, repair of tears, lining for overall reinforcement, and, when appropriate, deacidification.
Conservators can also reduce staining, fill paper losses, and in-paint lost areas of design.
Rehousing options such as matting, reframing, and polyester film encapsulation are available. The Book Conservation Department is staffed by six professional conservators with expertise in treating a full range of bound materials. Book conservators perform page treatments, conserve fragile original bindings, and rebind books in a variety of materials including leather, cloth, paper, and vellum. The Reprographic Services Department specializes in preservation microfilming and duplication of photographic prints and negatives.