The University of Iowa Libraries Preservation and Conservation Department ensures long-term use of the UI Libraries collection, maintaining the integrity of the physical artifact and retaining its content in order to support research, teaching, and learning at the UI.

It only seems fitting that the department's facilities would receive similar attention to fulfill its mission.

The new conservation lab in UI Main Library combines existing tools and equipment with updated furnishings to create a bright and efficient workspace designed specifically for the conservation treatment of library materials.

The department will hold an open house to showcase its new facilities from 3 to 5 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 19, on the fifth floor of UI Main Library.

To read a related "Get to Know..." feature on Giselle Simon, conservator in the UI Libraries' Preservation and Conservation Department, visit now.uiowa.edu/2012/09/get-know-giselle-simon.

Click the thumbnails below for a closer look at the new lab.