FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Updated March 30, 2007

Press Contacts
202-653-4632
Jeannine Mjoseth, jmjoseth@imls.gov
Mamie Bittner, mbittner@imls.gov

IMLS Requests Proposals to
Purchase, Promote, and Distribute a Conservation Bookshelf

Updated deadline: April 26, 2007

Washington, DC--The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) invites proposals for a cooperative agreement to purchase and distribute a set of conservation-related books, bibliographies, DVDs, and on-line resources as part of its Connecting to Collections initiative. The cooperator will also mount a promotional campaign about the Connecting to Collections initiative and the Conservation Bookshelf, with special attention to raising awareness and soliciting requests for the bookshelf from small to medium-sized museums, libraries, and archives. Download the RFP here (PDF, 73KB).

The Conservation Bookshelf will address topics such as guidance for conservation of specific types of objects; conservation treatment; planning; disaster readiness; culturally specific conservation issues; and conservation of living collections. The Institute’s goal is to provide basic texts and resources free of charge to a broad spectrum of library, museum, and archive staff based on a simple application.

“Libraries and museums that apply for the Conservation Bookshelf, an important collection of reference materials, demonstrate their commitment to conservation and preservation. This will inspire others to undertake this serious work and help us continue to fight the good fight,” said IMLS Director Anne-Imelda Radice, Ph.D. The IMLS launched its Connecting to Collections initiative in response to the Heritage Health Index, a 2005 study on the dire state of the nation’s collections conducted by Heritage Preservation in partnership with the IMLS. In addition to the Conservation Bookshelf, the initiative includes:

• A national conservation summit to be held in Washington, DC, June 27-28, 2007. This summit will be open to invitees, all of whom will receive the Conservation Bookshelf.
• Four conservation forums to take place in cities across the nation beginning in January 2008 and continuing throughJune 2009.
• Planning grants to each state and territory for the purpose of creating conservation/preservation plans that address the recommendations of the Heritage Health Index.

About the Institute of Museum and Library Services
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s 122,000 libraries and 17,500 museums. The Institute's mission is to create strong libraries and museums that connect people to information and ideas. The Institute works at the national level and in coordination with state and local organizations to sustain heritage, culture, and knowledge; enhance learning and innovation; and support professional development. To learn more about the Institute, please visit: www.imls.gov.