notice Some items are only available on campus or will require authentication via EUID and Password at the point of use.

About Preservation

Page Contents 1 minute read.

Preservation Lab OverviewUpdate URL to this section

The primary function of the Preservation Lab is to support the Special Collections department, although we work with all UNT Library departments to provide training, consultation, and general preservation and repair services to ensure that the UNT Libraries’ collections remain in good condition and available to our students, faculty, and researchers.

Preservation Services for Special CollectionsUpdate URL to this section

Our primary work for the Special Collections department is to preserve materials in the best possible condition, while making them accessible for use with the least risk of damage. This may include:

Housing EnclosuresUpdate URL to this section

We construct specialized enclosures for rare books, photographs, maps, and other flat and 3-dimensional objects, including:

  • Encapsulation
  • Mylar Jackets and Wraps
  • “Four-Flap” Enclosures
  • Phase Boxes
  • Clamshell Cases

Material Preservation and RepairUpdate URL to this section

Other preservation services include:

  • Cleaning of materials
  • Mold treatment
  • Deacidification
  • Humidification and Flattening
  • Paper repairs

Long-Term Care and ConsultationUpdate URL to this section

  • Preparing collections for long-term permanent storage
  • Exhibition consultation and planning
  • Environmental monitoring
  • Disaster planning
  • Conducting preservation assessments and surveys

Preservation Services for General CollectionsUpdate URL to this section

For the general collections and other Library departments, we aim to keep items in the best possible condition for circulation and general use within the Libraries. This work includes:

Repairs and TreatmentsUpdate URL to this section

General repairs for circulating and non-circulating items, such as:

  • Book re-casing
  • Spine removal and repair
  • Double-Fan adhesive binding
  • Page repair
  • Velo-binding
  • Sewing supplemental materials into circulating items
  • Adding pocket enclosures

Training and ConsultationUpdate URL to this section

  • Training staff in other departments on basic repairs
  • Offering consulting services on repair and housing methods

Limitations and AssistanceUpdate URL to this section

At this time, we are not able to offer preservation services to the UNT community outside of the Libraries or to the general public. However, please feel free to contact us for guidance or advice regarding your preservation needs and concerns.

Learn MoreUpdate URL to this section

To learn more about our Preservation Lab, please take our Preservation Lab virtual tour.