Lead Conservator & Preservation Program Director

Amherst College; Washington, Northern (District of Columbia, KY); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 115,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Generous leave options

403b contribution and match

Job summary

Folger Shakespeare Library on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC seeks a Head of Conservation and Preservation to lead the care of its renowned collections. Reporting to the Associate Librarian for Collections Care, you will guide a team of conservators and set priorities for books, manuscripts, textiles, and works on paper across storage, display, and transport.

You will manage complex treatments, risk assessments, and preventive care, collaborating across departments to integrate best practices,

Qualifications

• Graduate degree from an accredited conservation program or equivalent.
• 10+ years experience in book and paper conservation.
• 3+ years of management experience and staff oversight.

Responsibilities

• Lead long‑term care and treatment of Folger’s collections.
• Oversee the Conservation and Preservation program and budget.
• Coordinate with exhibitions, curators, and collections staff on loans and storage.

Education

Graduate degree in conservation or MLIS with conservation training

10+ years of experience in book and paper conservation

3+ years of management experience

Job description

Folger Shakespeare Library on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC seeks a Head of Conservation and Preservation to lead the care of its renowned collections. Reporting to the Associate Librarian for Collections Care, you will guide a team of conservators and set priorities for books, manuscripts, textiles, and works on paper across storage, display, and transport.

You will manage complex treatments, risk assessments, and preventive care, collaborating across departments to integrate best practices,