American Woods: Conservation of a Unique Item.

Abstract

Romeyn Hough's The American Woods: exhibited by actual specimens and with copious explanatory text (1888-1928) stands as a valuable and unique title in the field of forestry. It contains paper-thin wood samples requiring special handling and conservation to prevent damage and disintegration. This article discusses why libraries and other institutions should consider this unique item for preservation selection, what conservation measures Penn State Libraries has taken, and what other types of preservation efforts have already been achieved.