Sample interview questions: Can you provide an example of a time when you had to balance the need for both preservation and access in relation to special collections materials?
Sample answer:
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In my previous role as a Special Collections Librarian at the University of California, Berkeley, I encountered a situation where I had to strike a delicate balance between preservation and access regarding rare book collection.
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The collection consisted of 16th-century volumes, some of which were in fragile condition. Researchers and scholars frequently requested access to these materials for academic research and historical study.
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To address this, I implemented a controlled access policy that allowed researchers to view the materials in a dedicated reading room under strict conditions. This included wearing gloves, handling the books carefully, and refraining from taking photographs or notes directly on the pages.
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In addition, I worked with a team of conservators to assess the condition of each volume and prioritize the most vulnerable items for conservation treatment. We also implemented environmental controls in the reading room to minimize exposure to harmful… Read full answer
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