Conservation Skills for Archivists

ARA South East and London is delighted to host this face-to-face training event led by Sue Hourigan at Royal Berkshire Archives in Reading.

Sue Hourigan brings over 30 years of experience as a professional paper and book conservator. She has been senior conservator at Royal Berkshire Archives since 1995 and has delivered numerous workshops and talks to diverse audiences, including museum volunteers, family history groups, and ARA conference attendees.

This practical workshop is designed for archivists looking to refresh and expand their conservation skills. Participants will learn how to assess damage to archives, determine appropriate interventions, and gain hands-on experience with a variety of preservation techniques.

The training will cover:

• Basic principles for complete novices on "the enemies of archives"
• Damage assessment and grading to enable effective communication with conservators
• Practical sessions on:
• • Sellotape removal
  • Magazine stitching
  • Leather and red rot consolidation
  • First aid for book covers
  • Surface cleaning of paper documents
  • Care of wax seals

Programme
10:30 – Arrival and refreshments
10:45 – Welcome and introductions
11:00 – Basic principles of conservation
11:30 – Grading damage and deciding interventions
12:00 – Practical workshop session 1
13:00 – Lunch break (optional strong room tour)
14:00 – Practical workshop session 2
15:15 – Tea break
15:30 – Q&A
16:00 – Close

Additional Details:

• Optional tour of the strong rooms during lunch
• Tea, coffee, and light refreshments will be provided. Participants are welcome to bring their own lunch. A BP garage with an M&S is nearby, as well as a small Tesco within a 5-10 minute walk.

Venue and Accessibility:
Royal Berkshire Archives (9 Coley Ave, Reading, RG1 6AF). Free onsite parking which includes disabled spaces. Approximately a 20-minute walk from the railway station.

Booking and Delegate Fee:
The event is for both ARA members and non-members.

• £25 for ARA members
• £50 for non-members

Booking deadline: Monday 27th January 2025

Contact:
If you have any further questions about the event, please email: [email protected]

Host or Publisher ARA South East region