Preservation Techniques and Methods

4-Week Course Starts JAN 12, 2026

This course qualifies toward completion of the Preservation Specialist Certificate.

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.


"Extremely helpful course. You will see that there is a lot to learn in the preservation area. "

- Janice Moore, Calhoun County Public Library, Blountstown, Florida

? Frequently Asked Questions

When does the course start and finish?

  • This course starts on JAN 12, 2026. 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 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 enrollment?
  • The last day for enrollment is FRIDAY JAN 09, 2026.

Will the instructor be available for feedback and questions?
  • Absolutely! Your instructor will provide feedback for each assignment and will be available via email or phone for any questions you may have. A discussion forum is also available where participants can post questions.
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.
Will I receive a Certificate of Completion?
  • In order to receive a Certificate of Completion you must:
  1. View all video lectures
  2. Answer all quizzes
  3. Complete all written assignments
  • When you complete these three items you can expect to receive you certificate within two weeks.
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 info@preservethis.org for an invoice. This will be emailed to you and you can pay through the link provided in the invoice.
What if I am unhappy with the course?
  • We offer a 14-day refund (from the day the course starts) on all asynchronous courses. Send your refund request to info@preservethis.org.

"I feel more confident in my ability to understand and practice preservation techniques particular to my library than when I started it. If you're a beginner in this area, this course will give you the basics of what you need to know as a librarian charged with archival duties."

- Nancy Maxwell, Genealogy Librarian, Grapevine, TX

Get started now!