Two Library volunteers describe their recent experience of working as trained demonstrators during guided-tours of the Conservation Studio, where the medieval Boston Manuscript, purchased with HLF funding, is in the process of being re-bound:
Sam Shaw:
“When the project with the tours opened up I was incredibly excited. This was a chance to do something really exciting and incredibly rare and unique. The experience was fantastic. The master class in handling manuscripts was so useful, not only to the task at hand but also in gaining skills to aid me in the pursuit of a career working within museums, hopefully with more objects such as the Boston Manuscript.”
Kat Donohue:
“Having the rare opportunity to volunteer on the Boston Manuscript project at the NLW is an experience I will never forget. From the training day right up to the end of the tour I was involved in, everything was extremely exciting. Of course there were nerves when it came to handling pages of the manuscript itself, but they soon vanished as I enjoyed showing members of the public one of the best pieces of Welsh history.”
Entrusted with the care of the original manuscript, both volunteers worked with Library staff to present the story of the volume’s history, and its consolidation and repair within recent months:
Kat Donohue:
“I have definitely learned a number of new skills, including how to handle rare documents and some preservation methods, and I hope to carry these skills with me to further my career in archiving and the conservation/preservation of rare documents. I would like to thank the NLW and it’s staff for giving me this amazing opportunity.”
Sam Shaw:
“The tour itself was exciting to say the least. This opportunity was incredible and I am truly grateful for the opportunity.”
Current volunteering opportunities are advertised on the National Library’s webpage.