Job Description

Overview Book and Paper Conservator for Exhibitions role at Folger Shakespeare Library. The Conservator will perform conservation treatments on bound and unbound library and archival materials for exhibition-related activities, under the direction of the Head of Conservation and Preservation. Responsibilities Exhibition Support and Liaison: serve as primary liaison between the Conservation and Preservation Department and the Exhibition Department; advise curators and exhibition staff on selection, preservation, and display of collection items; support exhibition installation and ensure proper care of materials; create high-end display mounts. Collections Care and Conservation: evaluate condition of items for exhibition, design treatment proposals, implement workflows and timelines; perform complex conservation treatments on books, manuscripts, parchment, and works on paper; document condition at all treatment stages per guidelines; contribute to preventive preservation programs; prepare items for outgoing loans and participate in loan policies. Collaboration and Outreach: contribute to team projects; assist in Conservation Lab administration; provide training and supervision as needed; educate staff, researchers, and the public on conservation; support programming through talks and digital content; stay current with field developments; participate in professional development and related activities. Qualifications Master’s degree in Conservation, or at least 5 years of recent, relevant experience in book and paper conservation (equivalent training acceptable). Hands-on conservation experience in a library or archival setting, with emphasis on book, paper, and parchment conservation; and experience in exhibition preparation and installation. Solid experience with conservation documentation tools (databases, photography) and imaging (transmitted, UV, IR); ability to train staff, fellows, or interns is desirable; public engagement/outreach experience is a plus. Strong knowledge of the history and structure of books and their displays; familiarity with leather, parchment, paper, and printing/writing media; understanding of materials used in conservation and exhibition contexts; knowledge of chemistry and material science; understanding of environmental requirements in galleries and storage. Excellent communication skills, collaboration, project management, and organizational abilities; proficiency with digital tools (Outlook, Excel, Word, Airtable, FileMaker Pro, Adobe Creative Suite). Education and Experience Master’s degree in Conservation, or at least 5 years of recent, relevant experience in book and paper conservation; equivalent training accepted. Hands-on conservation practice in library/archival settings; exhibition preparation and installation experience required. Working Conditions Professional conservation lab environment; varied equipment and environmental conditions; reasonable accommodations available for disabilities. Normal schedule Monday–Friday, 8:45am–4:45pm, with occasional evenings/weekends for projects; onsite in DC area; commuting distance required. Ability to lift up to 40 lbs; use of chemicals per OSHA requirements; occasional travel as courier. Employment details Employment type: Full-time Seniority level: Mid-Senior level Job function: Design, Art/Creative, and Information Technology Industries: Libraries #J-18808-Ljbffr Folger Shakespeare Library

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