Conservators' Tools

Traditional equipment, such as a wooden frame for sewing books, and scientific equipment, such as this stereomicroscope, sit alongside each other at the University of Chicago Library Conservation Lab.


Tools used in conservation treatment include steel microspatulas, tweezers, awls, scalpels, brushes, erasers, cotton swabs, Teflon and bone folders, and magnifying glasses.

A microscope and a delicate wooden frame.
Book Sewing Frame and Stereomicroscope

Photo by Melina Avery.
Jars with paint brushes, scissors, and other equipment.
Conservation Tools

Photo by Melina Avery
A tray of scissors, special tape, string, and other assorted tools.
Conservation Tools

Photo by Melina Avery