The reproduction of Leonard Jenyns Entomoligia Cantabragiensis: An insight into the preservation issues of bound books

Natural science museums often contain book and paper material that is inherently important to their collections. Although these materials can be as vital to the museums’ narrative as the specimens themselves, natural science conservators are not necessarily familiar with this aspect of the collection and its conservation needs. During the recent redevelopment of the University of Cambridge Museum of Zoology, a project was undertaken to produce a facsimile of Leonard Jenyns’ Entomologia Cantabrigiensis, Part One in order that it could be put on long term display. The notebook includes observations made by Jenyns regarding the Lepidoptera of Cambridgeshire, and as well as providing context to specimens as part of the display, it remains a significant source in evaluating wildlife conservation efforts occurring in the area today. The process of replicating the notebook gave unique access to the exploration of traditional bookbinding methods and offered an opportunity to gain new skills transferrable to one’s needs. By outlining the various stages, and by introducing some general preservation issues regarding bound books, it is hoped that greater insight will be given as to their nature and the problems museum professionals may encounter in caring for books as part of their collections.