2024 Papyrus Conservation Summer Seminar

Course dates: 

2-weeks, 12- 23 August 2024

Application Deadline: 

12 January 2024

Place: 

University of Michigan Library, Papyrology Collection, Ann Arbor, MI

The Papyrology Collection of the University of Michigan Library will host a two-week seminar in papyrus conservation from Monday, 12 August to Friday, 23 August 2024 taught by papyrus conservator, Marieka Kaye. Participants will receive an in-depth, hands-on introduction to papyrus conservation. They will learn about the tools and materials used in papyrus conservation as well as the theory and methodology behind current conservation techniques. They will then utilize these techniques to perform a range of treatment on papyri from the University of Michigan's collection, including written documentation, digital photo-documentation, mechanical cleaning, damp treatments, reduction of folds, alignment of fibers, alignment of fragments, and methods of housing and storage.

Due to space constraints, the number of participants is strictly limited. Preference will be given to scholars and conservators who are directly involved with papyrus collections, whether in conservation, archaeological contexts, or papyrology.

There is no course fee for the seminar, which is supported by the University of Michigan Papyrology Collection. Participants are responsible for their own travel, lodging, and meals. The Leyla Lau-Lamb Papyrus Conservation Seminar Fund may be used to help a student in financial need. Please indicate your need for financial assistance in your application. 

All required tools will be provided for use during the seminar. All participants are required to offer a presentation on their home institution's papyrus conservation issues, and/or past experiences and concerns. A certificate of participation will be provided at the end of the seminar.

The Instructor: Marieka Kaye began to work in the field of library conservation as a Preservation Assistant at Brandeis University in 1998. She is currently the Director of Preservation Services for Physical Collections at the University of Michigan Library, where she leads the in-house preservation and treatment of physical materials, both special and general collections. She also continues to attend to the treatment needs of the U-M papyrus collection. Marieka came to U-M in 2013, after serving as a book and paper conservator for eight years at the Huntington Library in San Marino, CA. She received a Master's degree and Certificate of Advanced Study in Art Conservation from SUNY Buffalo State University and a Master's of Library and Information Science from San Jose State University. Marieka trained in papyrus conservation for six years with Leyla Lau-Lamb.

To apply please send contact information, CV, a statement summarizing relevant conservation or papyrological experience and responsibilities (maximum 600 words), and one letter of recommendation in PDF format to: marieka@umich.edu

Deadline for applications is 12 January 2024.