Preservation Techniques and Methods

4-Week Course Starts JUL 14, 2025

Course Description:

What is preservation? Why do objects deteriorate? How can we best protect our collections? Nearly all archive and library positions have preservation responsibilities attached to them but not everyone knows where to start. This course will introduce the basics of preservation, the best preservation techniques and methods for your collections, and how to implement a preservation program for your institution.

Learning Objectives:

  • Explain the basic mechanisms by which library and archival materials deteriorate.
  • Demonstrate basic care and handling techniques for common collection items.
  • Design effective storage procedures.
  • List the elements of a successful preservation program.
  • Plan for preservation in your own institution.

Total Course Hours: 10 Hours/ 1 CEU


Your Instructor


Carmen Cowick
Carmen Cowick

Carmen Cowick provides training, support, and consulting services in the areas of preservation and collections care. She received a bachelor's degree in art history and a master's degree in library science with a certificate in archives and preservation of cultural materials from CUNY Queens College in New York City. Since 2019, she has been a lecturer at Emporia State University, teaching on a variety of archival and library-related topics.

Carmen has written numerous scholarly articles on preservation-related topics and is the author of the books Digital Curation Projects Made Easy and Crash Course in Disaster Preparedness.


Frequently Asked Questions


When does the course start and finish?
This course starts on JUL 14, 2025.
 It is an asynchronous online course designed to be completed in 4 weeks.
Participants will spend approximately 2.5 hours each week on viewing lectures, answering quizzes, and completing discussion, reading, and written assignments.
It is recommended that you complete each week's work within that week to stay in sync with other learners.
When is the last day for registration?
Enrollment ends on Friday, JUL 11th.
Will the instructor be available for feedback and questions?
Absolutely! Your instructor will provide feedback for each assignment and will be available via email for any questions you may have. A discussion area is also available where participants can post questions.
Will I receive a Certificate of Completion?
In order to receive a Certificate of Completion you must complete the following each week:
1. View all lectures
2. Answer all quizzes
3. Complete all assignments .
You will receive your certificate approximately 2 weeks after the course ends..
How long do I have access to the course material?
You will have unlimited access for three months from the start date of this course.
I am having trouble enrolling. Help!
We're sorry to hear this. Here are some options:

1. Try enrolling with a different browser or with a different device (laptop, tablet, smart phone, etc.)
2. Email us at [email protected] and request that we send you an invoice. You can pay through the link provided in the invoice.
What if I am unhappy with the course?
We would never want you to be unhappy! If you are unsatisfied with your purchase, Contact us in the first 14 days and we will give you a full refund.

Get started now!