Aspiring to Greatness with Hindsight and Foresight: Assessing Current Preservation and Conservation Practices of Art Museum Library Collections

Abstract

Art museum library collections are unique in scope and invaluable as a principal institutional asset; therefore, extensive preservation and conservation activities for these collections can be justified. By conducting a survey and literature review, the author examines and explores current preservation and conservation activities for art museum library collections: how these actions are realized, staff structures required, the historical contexts of preservation, and how decision-making affects collections and value. She also clarifies the necessity for funding and collaboration to achieve higher standards of integrated preservation for art museum library collections in all formats.