KU Libraries to host discussion on preserving family history

LAWRENCE — Before you toss that old family portrait or stack of letters, remember that it might be history. The University of Kansas Libraries will present "Preserving Family History," a discussion explaining the importance of family keepsakes and how to preserve them, on Saturday, June 2, in Watson Library.

A discussion led by Conservator Whitney Baker and Archivist Sherry Williams will explain how to recognize the value of your family's historic items and offer techniques for preserving photos, papers and news clippings.

The event, which is free and open to the public, will be from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on the third floor of Watson. RSVP by May 31 to Kristina Crawford, 785-864-8961, or by email.

Baker, an associate librarian and conservator at KU Libraries, specializes in repairing and maintaining rare books and manuscripts. She has recently received international attention for her research in developing preservation methods for bumper stickers.

Williams, curator of collections at the Kenneth Spencer Research Library, oversees the Kansas Collection and works to acquire primary sources that document the Kansas experience and provide researchers with materials that document the history of the region.

The Kenneth Spencer Research Library's faculty and staff are dedicated to the preservation of diverse collections ranging from medieval manuscripts and other rare books to Kansas historical records to national political documents. For more information, visit online.