But the new century shows there are also great opportunities. The author describes a recent survey of members of the Association of Research Libraries that provide a relatively upbeat picture over the last five years, with several real achievements noted along with future challenges. For example, the appearance of several preservation endowments on campuses signals better marketing of preservation needs and rising interest from individual donors. The author describes her experience at the Smithsonian Institution Libraries in building a preservation program. Although initial attention focused elsewhere, one of the most valuable aspects for fund-raising is the Libraries' Book Conservation Laboratory.
Donors find the work performed by conservators fascinating.
Libraries can learn from museums how important the emotional appeal of the artifact is and how it can be used to convey the broader preservation needs to potential donors.