About Conservation of Books and Library Materials, Graduate Diploma - at West Dean College

With dedicated staff and large, fully-equipped workshops, students gain the skills necessary to become professional book conservators. Practical projects start immediately, with books and related materials provided from historical collections for student work. Access to workshops is from 7am to 10pm seven days a week.

All students have a personal workbench, and the department has areas for practical work, scientific work

and testing, bookbinding, finishing and tool sharpening, and secure storage. In addition, you will have access to

the College’s well-equipped analytical laboratory. The curriculum involves practical treatment on real jobs,

developing the use of current techniques. Work is carried out with reference to the historical context of books, their varying structures and an understanding of relevant materials science.

Work placements prepare students for life as professional conservators. Recent placements have been undertaken at Cambridge University Library, the V&A Museum, National Archives of the Netherlands, the Lincei Library in Rome, and the National Library Board in Singapore.

---

Entry requirements for this course

Contact West Dean College to find course entry requirements.

---

View all courses at West Dean College

---

Related information

Studying in United Kingdom