University of Dayton Marian Library Preservation Assessment

FAIN: PG-52305-14

University of Dayton (Dayton, OH 45469-0001)
Jillian Slater (Project Director: May 2013 to April 2015)

A preservation assessment and review of existing preservation policies for the university's archives and rare books. Holdings include 6,000 rare books dating from 1473 to 1800 and 4,000 linear feet of archival materials documenting the history, spirituality, and ecclesiastical foundations of the study of Mary, Mother of Jesus. Notable items include cultural expressions of Marian doctrine and devotion in Spanish, French, Latin, English, and Italian, such as books of hours (illuminated devotionals from the 15th century), incunabula (books printed before 1500), devotional meditations, and apologetic works, 75 linear feet of holy cards dating from the 16th century to the present, and 30,000 postcards documenting Marian shrines around the world from 1908 to the present. Audiovisual materials and ephemera collections contain a 1955 series of Catholic films for children, original footage from religious events such as the 1976 dedication of the Basilica in Mexico City, pilgrimage souvenirs, holy water, capsules, scapulars, rosaries, medals, and handcrafted objects.

The Preservation Assistance Grant would support a preservation assessment of archival materials and rare books in the Marian Library at the University of Dayton. The assessment would evaluate storage conditions, housing of materials, and environmental conditions. The assessment would also include a review of existing preservation policies and practices.