Preservation Management

Library and archives preservation managers and collection development officers are responsible for the care of both paper-based collections and new and multimedia information. These professionals focus on preservation planning issues, such as climate and light control, security, and insurance. They also work in conservation — often with conservators, binders, and other experts, and sometimes in disaster-recovery situations after war or natural disasters.

Students who wish to prepare to work as preservation managers or collection development officers with preservation management responsibilities may take Preservation Management for Libraries and Archives (LIS 439). Other recommended courses are Technical Services (LIS 418), Collection Development and Management (LIS 453), Preservation Technologies (LIS 448), and Collection Maintenance (LIS 447).

Internship Opportunities

Greater experience in practice may be obtained after completing LIS 439 with satisfactory performance by applying for a semester-long preservation internship at Harvard University Libraries or other area libraries. Opportunities for three kinds of internship projects with differing emphases are available, involving hands-on practice, research, and/or management projects. Contact time varies from 12 to 18 hours per week. Efforts will be made to match students' capabilities and career goals with available projects and settings.

Master of Science

Preservation Management

Internship Opportunities

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