Today is Ask a Conservator Day! To celebrate, we’re announcing the reopening of the John Hay Library’s newly renovated conservation lab, a space designed to enhance the care and preservation of the Library’s special collections. Over the past two years, library conservation staff meticulously planned the renovation to create an environment that supports their vital work. The project, which took place during the winter and spring of 2024, culminated in a grand opening in July, showcasing an innovative facility that reflects the library’s commitment to safeguarding its invaluable treasures.

The redesigned lab 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.