Browse funds

Established in 1998 by Thomas W. Berry '69 P'92 '96 '99 for preservation of the humanities collection.

Funds from the Library's preservation-focused endowments allow us to care for Brown University's outstanding library collections, the availability of which is necessary to teaching and learning at the highest levels.

The Library is thrilled to have completed the renovation of the Special Collections Conservation Lab at the John Hay Library in July of 2024. The innovative facility reflects the Library's commitment to safeguarding its rare and unique special collections. The redesigned lab — used to treat materials held by the University Library and the John Carter Brown Library — features an array of amenities tailored to conservation professionals' needs. New lighting illuminates the workspace for detail-oriented work, and updated cabinetry provides storage space to hold a long list of supplies. Specialized workstations feature height-adjustable tables, pegboards, and tool storage. New hardware includes a custom paper-washing sink designed specifically for conservation processes. A photo-documentation setup ensures that each project is properly documented according to the American Institute for Conservation's Code of Ethics. A modular teamwork and teaching area allows staff to collaborate more effectively and share their expertise with students and staff.

The conservation team is thrilled to leverage this facility to ensure that Brown's special collections continue to be preserved for future generations. This renovation reinforces the Library's role as a steward of cultural heritage, providing a vibrant space for learning, collaboration, and the care of Brown's rare and unique special collections materials.