How do I find a conservator?

The Library of Congress can't recommend conservators. However, the American Institute of Conservation (AIC) has a Find-a-Conservator page on their website as well as a guide to hiring a conservator. You can narrow your search by material (books, art, etc.) or by geographic location.

If the item has collector's value, the damage is minor, and is infrequently handled, consider leaving it as-is and focusing on improving storage conditions. If the item is of personal/sentimental value only, the damage is minor, and some risk of further damage from do-it-yourself repair is acceptable, the Northeast Document Conservation Center has put together useful information on Surface Cleaning of Paper. 

Related Topics

Last Updated: Sep 10, 2024
Views: 1037
FAQ Actions

Learn More

Preservation at the Library of Congress
Visit our website for more information about our programs and services.
Donations/Gifts of Library Materials
The Library welcomes inquiries about donations of library materials but cannot accept everything. Browse our Donations page for forms and additional information.

Additional Ways to Contact Us

Send written correspondence to:

Preservation Directorate
Library of Congress
101 Independence Ave. SE
Washington, D.C.  20540-4530

Please Note

We cannot provide: conservation (including review, examination, treatment), digitization/reformatting, access to/use of Library of Congress equipment, project funding, appraisals, recommendations for products or vendors, materials testing or analysis, preservation courses or classes, and/or responses to vendors seeking to sell or promote commercial products.