Paper and Photograph Conservation

Paper and Photograph Conservation is responsible for the preservation and conservation of rare, unique and valuable paper and photographic materials in the Cornell University Library collections and provides the following services:

• Condition surveys and assessments
• Conservation treatment, minor (surface cleaning, humidification and flattening) and complex (stabilization of tears; reduction of discoloration)
• Exhibit and loan assessment and treatment
• Archival housing in protective enclosures; custom enclosures
• Preventive care
• Advising on safe handling, collections care, and preparation for imaging
• Education and outreach through training of staff and interns,  presenting seminars and workshops on the care of photographs and family papers, and disaster preparedness and response, and serving as a resource for the public and professional colleagues 

Conservation research: Epigraphic Squeezes, Gettysburg Address

Notable projects: Lincoln Portraits (Process Chart & Narrative), Witchcraft in Popular Culture, Linen Architectural Drawings, The Topography of Treatments

Contact:  Michele Hamill, Paper and Photograph Conservator, mh92@cornell.edu, 607-255-5766