Book Conservators
Overview
Introduction
Book conservators treat the bindings and pages of books and other objects to help preserve original materials for future use. Their work often includes removing a book block from its binding, and then sewing, measuring, gluing, rebinding, and using special chemical treatments to maintain the integrity of the item. Most conservators work in libraries, in museums, or for special conservation centers.
Quick Facts
Median Salary
Employment Prospects
Minimum Education Level
Experience
Skills
Personality Traits
Earnings
It is difficult to say how much the average book conservator makes since many conservators work part time, are self-employed, or have positions that encompass other duties as well. In August 2024, ZipRecruiter reported the average salary for book conservators was $61,742. The U.S. Department of Labor reports that in May 2023, museum conservators and technicians (which could include book conserv...
Work Environment
Because of the damage that dirt, humidity, and the sun can cause to books, most conservators work in clean, climate-controlled areas away from direct sunlight. Many conservation labs are small offices, which often employ the conservator alone or perhaps with one or two part-time assistants. Other labs are part of a larger department within an organization; the University of Chicagos Regenstein ...
Outlook
Employment for museum conservators and technicians (including book conservators) is expected to grow much faster than the average for all careers through 2032, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. There is strong competition for jobs because the field is so small and many people are interested in entering this profession. Book conservators who are graduates of conservation programs and wh...