Not all maps come to libraries in pristine condition.

Often times we receive maps in the same condition as the map below.

Before

Curled from being rolled, backed on cloth with unknown glue, shellac coating and bits falling off.

Often times these can be and are sent to our conservation center, and now thanks to the Conservation Center for Arts and Historic Artifacts we can see some of the same processes that would be done in our own labs to restore an item such as this.

After

An amazing transition from what an untrained eye would think was unsalvageable to a perfectly good map. To view the transition process and the steps involved, please visit the Conservation Center for Art and Historical Objects.