Conservation Advice and Expertise

(left: 18th Century document damaged by insects)

The 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 Archive Centres and local studies libraries.  The Conservation Unit in Carlisle provides a central point of access for advice and support for preservation and conservation problems of historical records in Cumbria.  As well as the 4 Archive Centres and local studies libraries, private historical institutions and local community groups and societies, and any member of the public in Cumbria needing information and support in the care and preservation of their papers can receive advice from the conservation staff.

We employ friendly 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, prints, photographic images on glass, paper and film, wax and shellac seals and works of art on paper.

The Conservators also have experience in preservation environments and conditions for the safe keeping of archives, and will try to direct you to useful resources for help with other items.

(Left: cleaning a 16th Century parchment)

How the public can use the Conservation Service:

Our Conservators are happy to discuss your conservation and preservation needs, including those listed below, with you.  Please contact them by phone or make an appointment to meet one at their Unit or one of the Archive Centres.  Advice is free but a charge is made for archival packaging material and any work undertaken.

Advice on an appropriate conservation treatment
Advice on storage and display
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