Book conservation apprenticeship

The University of Iowa Libraries
Two Apprenticeships in Book Conservation

The Conservation Department of the University of Iowa Libraries, under
the direction of University Conservator Pamela Spitzmueller, provides
conservation services for the collections of the University Libraries.
The Department assists the Book Repair Unit in serving the needs of the
circulating collections, under the direction of the Preservation
Librarian.  Through apprenticeships and workshops, the Department
provides educational opportunities in book conservation.  The
Conservation Department is affiliated with the University of Iowa Center
for the Book and the School of Art and Art History.

Description:  The Apprenticeship in Book Conservation is designed to
offer training and extensive experience to highly motivated individuals
in the field of book and library conservation.    There are currently
two apprentice positions available, one to begin in Fall 1992, one in
Spring, 1993.  We are seeking candidates who give evidence of problem
solving ability, manual dexterity, concern for the preservation of
cultural heritage, creativity and curiosity, and a commitment to book
conservation as a profession.  Over a period of up to four years
(depending on existing skills), the program guides apprentices from
beginning bookbinding through progressively more difficult binding
techniques and conservation practices in a library setting, until they
are well versed in a wide range of conservation activities as well as
bookbinding skills.  The objective is to prepare participants to
function as book conservators in libraries, regional centers, archives
or private practice.

Appointment Status:  Apprentices are appointed as "Book Arts Technical
Trainees" (University of Iowa personnel classification category FL5200).
Compensation is a stipend of $16,500.00 per year, usually with annual
cost-of-living adjustments.  Apprentices are eligible for the
University's health and dental insurance programs, and will earn
vacation and sick leave.

Program:  Apprentices receive practical, bench-oriented training in
bookbinding, and book and paper conservation. Instruction in the theory
and background of conservation work will be covered through readings,
discussions and research assignments.  Participants will have a
forty-hour per week schedule, and typically work under the Conservator,
Preservation Librarian or an advanced apprentice on projects designed to
provide varied experience and serve the Libraries' conservation needs.
At the same time, the Conservator will direct reading assignments,
research projects, and design and oversee execution of limited edition
bindings for the University of Iowa Center for the Book.  Apprentices
will enter the program on a six-month probationary status.

Admission and Selection:  Applicants are asked to provide a personal
statement of approximately 1000 words describing their interests and
goals in relation to conservation; a resume of previous experience and
education; names, addresses and phone numbers of 3 references; a
portfolio containing slides of bindings or creative work, and an example
of written research work.  A bachelor's degree is strongly advised for
entry to the program.  A test of manual dexterity may be requested and
an interview in Iowa City is required.

Funding for these two apprenticeships is provided by a generous grant
from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation.  The University of Iowa is an
affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.

Applications and requests for additional information should be sent to

Barbara I. Dewey
Director, Administrative and Access Services
University of Iowa Libraries
Iowa City, IA 52242.

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                   Conservation DistList Instance 6:8
                   Distributed: Sunday, July 12, 1992
                        Message Id: cdl-6-8-001
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