Conservation

(left: 18th Century document damaged by insects)

A Conservation Unit has existed within the Archive Service for many years, with the purpose of preserving the many and varied archives in the keeping of Cumbria’s Record Offices and local studies libraries.  We are also able to offer our services to museums and individuals in the county. 

We employ conservation professionals who are skilled in the most up to date preservation and conservation techniques covering a wide range of materials including paper and parchment manuscripts, bound volumes, maps and plans, photographs, wax and shellac seals and works of art on paper.

All work is carried out according to recognised professional standards and is fully documented.

Advice on an appropriate conservation treatment 
Advice on storage and display

(Left: cleaning a 16th Century parchment)

Repackaging of items using conservation grade materials 
Site visits
Environmental assessment of storage areas
Training sessions / talks
Disaster planning consultations

Help in the event of an emergency such as fire or flood