Preservation Survey for the Congregational Library

FAIN: PG-50153-07

American Congregational Association (Boston, MA 02108-3704)
Margaret L. Bendroth (Project Director: May 2006 to December 2008)

A general preservation assessment and development of long-term preservation plans for archival records from 206 churches as well as 1200 periodicals, 550 linear feet of sermons, 160 hymn and tune books, and an array of other materials related to the history of the Congregational Church in America from the 18th century to the 1980s.

The Congregational Library has a rare and unique collection of books, periodicals, pamphlets, and images documenting the history of one of most significant religious traditions in the United States. In order to preserve and provide access to these exceptional materials, the library will engage a consultant to conduct a preservation survey. The consultant is expected to provide a report of recommendations evaluating the present state of the items and proposing the best methods for protecting, conserving, treating, stabilizing, mending, and cleaning. The consultant will advise on limitations to these methods and estimate cost and duration for completing the preservation of the collections surveyed. Following this, the library will begin preserving the collections and maintain a high degree of access to the collections.