Much of the basis of knowledge, culture and history lies in written documents. Their materiality puts these objects at risk: water, dirt, mould, pests and chemical deterioration processes consume their physical substances. Archives, libraries and their affiliated institutions hold responsibility for safeguarding written cultural heritage and preserving it for the long term. This responsibility can only be met collectively.

Preservation in perspective

To mark our 10th anniversary, we have curated a photo exhibition at the German Digital Library. Preservation in Perspective showcases ten objects that exemplify the many facets of conservation work at archives, libraries and museums. Click on the image to discover how valuable wax tablets, silk scrolls, newspapers, manuscripts and municipal records were preserved for posterity. 

Call-to-Action

The exhibition shares its title with the international Preservation in Perspective conference, held on 23 and 24 November 2021 at the James Simon Gallery on Berlin's Museum Island and online. More than 250 participants from all over the world discussed the challenges of preservation in the 21st century. The keynotes are available on our YouTube channel