Documentation
Documentation in manuscript restoration refers to the careful process of recording and describing the condition, history, and treatment of historical documents and books. It's like creating a detailed diary that tracks every aspect of an old manuscript's life and restoration journey. This includes taking photographs, writing detailed notes, and maintaining records that help other conservators understand what work has been done. Think of it as creating a medical history for ancient books and documents. Similar terms used in the field include "condition reporting," "treatment documentation," or "conservation records."
Examples in Resumes
Created detailed Documentation of 15th-century manuscript restoration processes
Maintained comprehensive Documentation Records for rare book conservation projects
Led team in developing standardized Conservation Documentation procedures for the museum's manuscript collection
Typical job title: "Documentation Specialists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Documentation Specialists
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you implement a documentation system for a large collection of medieval manuscripts?
Expected Answer: A senior specialist should discuss creating comprehensive workflows, establishing documentation standards, incorporating digital and physical record-keeping methods, training staff, and ensuring long-term accessibility of records.
Q: How do you handle conflicting documentation methods between different institutions?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of international standards, ability to create crosswalks between different systems, and experience in developing unified documentation approaches while preserving historical record-keeping methods.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What key elements do you include in condition reports?
Expected Answer: Should mention physical condition assessment, photographic documentation, measurements, previous treatments, environmental conditions, and detailed descriptions of damage or deterioration.
Q: How do you document emergency conservation treatments?
Expected Answer: Should explain rapid documentation procedures, essential information capture, photo documentation under pressure, and methods for completing detailed records after emergency response.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What basic tools do you use for documentation?
Expected Answer: Should be able to discuss basic photography equipment, measuring tools, condition report forms, and digital documentation systems used in everyday work.
Q: How do you organize photographic documentation of manuscripts?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic file naming conventions, image storage systems, linking photos to written records, and basic photo documentation procedures.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic condition reporting
- Photography for documentation
- Record keeping
- Using documentation databases
Mid (2-5 years)
- Detailed treatment documentation
- Digital archive management
- Documentation workflow creation
- Training junior staff
Senior (5+ years)
- Documentation system design
- Policy development
- International standards implementation
- Project management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with condition reporting
- Poor photography skills
- Lack of attention to detail
- No knowledge of conservation ethics
- Unfamiliarity with documentation standards
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