Book Restorer
ほんしゅうりにん
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A book restorer is a specialist who repairs damaged pages, covers, and spines of books to maintain and improve their preservation condition.
Description
Book restorers are responsible for the preservation and restoration of old books, general books, and culturally valuable documents in libraries, museums, publishers, and specialized workshops. From diagnosing books, repairing deteriorated areas, remaking spines and covers, cloth covering, gluing, cleaning, to final drying and finishing, they perform a series of bookbinding and restoration processes based on specialized techniques and experience. Materials and techniques used are selected according to the type of book and degree of damage, and important tasks also include environmental adjustments to prevent future deterioration and record-keeping.
Future Outlook
While demand for general books decreases due to digitalization, demand for preservation and restoration of cultural properties and rare books remains stable. Demand for restoration technicians with high specialized skills is expected to be maintained.
Personality Traits
Curious and inquisitive / Dexterous with hands and adept at fine work / High concentration ability / Meticulous
Work Style
Freelance / Government Museum Employment / Restoration / Workshop Employment
Career Path
Apprentice Restorer → Book Restorer → Senior Restoration Technician → Conservation and Restoration Specialist → Independent/Opening a Business
Required Skills
Bookbinding Techniques / Deterioration Diagnosis / Paper and Leather Material Diagnosis / Restoration Chemicals / Tool and Equipment Operation
Recommended Skills
Art History and Conservation Science / Chemical Preservation Treatments / Cultural Property Restoration / Reading English Literature
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | To accurately repair minute damaged areas. |
| Learning Agility & Knowledge Acquisition | Because it is necessary to continuously learn new restoration techniques and materials. |
| Problem Solving | To select the optimal restoration method according to the extent of damage and materials. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Quantitative analysis is not particularly required. |
Related Qualifications
- Bookbinding Technician
Related Jobs
- Book Conservator
- Bookbinder
- Printer