NUL Conservation Experts

Hrvatski

Home > News/Events > News > NUL Conservation Experts

NUL Conservation Experts in Šibenik – Phase I of the Protection and Renovation Project of the Monastic Library of St. Francis Completed

With its collection of 150 volumes of medieval codices and 161 incunabula, some of which considered exquisite rarities internationally, the monastic library of St. Francis in Šibenik is regarded as one of the most valuable libraries in Croatia. Unfortunately, systematic care of this precious treasure has only been implemented recently, leaving the materials exposed to dust, moisture (leaking roof) adverse microclimate and vermin (microorganisms, insects and rodents) which has all lead to heavy damage of part of the materials. Considering the current state of this historical treasure, the approach to preservation work was selected with particular care. Apart from the necessary conservation and preservation work on the volumes, which included cleaning, desinfection and protective coating, the organization and relocation to a temporary repository was also carried out, where the materials would be stored during the restoration of the library. Evaluation has been made of the storage conditions and the present state and of the entire collection. Items which have sustained most damage have been inventoried, in order to create a programme of further protective measures, including conservation and restoration work.

Monastic Library of St. Francis in Šibenik Staff members of the Department of Protection and Storage of the National and University Library in Zagreb carried out all the work very professionally, within the set deadline of 18 working days, in cooperation with the relevant Conservation Department of Šibenik, University Library in Split, 'Juraj Šižgorić' City Library in Šibenik, and with the financial support of the Croatian Ministry of Culture. Further continuation and work schedule on the project of protection and renovation of the library will primarily depend on the availability of funds necessary for the completion of the Programme.

Monastic Library of St. Francis in Šibenik

National and University Library in Zagreb

Home | Step back | Site map | Send E-mail