Bingham Collection Project Conservator

Description:

Hagley appreciates the interest and efforts of all individuals who submit resumes and other documents for consideration of employment with us. Regrettably, however, we are no longer able to acknowledge and/or respond to all resumes received unless an interview for a specific vacancy is actually scheduled. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Hagley Museum and Library is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job Summary Hagley Museum and Library is now accepting applications for a temporary, part-time Project Paper Conservator to perform cleaning, stabilization, and housing of the William Bingham estate records, a collection of 18th and 19th century maps, journals, and manuscripts. These materials document the land surveyance and business dealings of Bingham and the Bingham Estate throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. The Project Paper Conservator will work with the Library Conservation Department under the supervision of the Library Conservator. The goal of the project is to stabilize this collection and allow for safe archival processing and researcher handling of the items. Some materials were exposed to fire and other items have accumulated dirt. The project will involve tear-mending and removing grime, soot, and dry surface mold spores from papers and bound materials. Responsibilities For most of the project term, the Project Paper Conservator will be expected to work alone while performing and documenting treatments with written reports and photography. They will work with the Library Conservator to become familiar with the collection and as needed. Treatment procedures will include: • Evaluation of materials to determine appropriate treatment and housing methods • Removal of mold residues from the exterior of bound volumes and individual papers using a HEPA vacuum and a soft brush • Mending of tears and stabilization of weaknesses in papers • Humidification and flattening of manuscript documents and maps • Construction of specialized supports for rolled maps Required Qualifications Minimum of five (5) years employment as a Conservation Technician or in collections care with experience performing treatments on paper and books. A master’s degree or advanced training in art conservation is preferred.