Activities
Activities and proposed conservation projects for the library of the monastery
Digitization of microfilms
The microfilm archive numbers 370 rolls, 35mm, black and white negatives. Only the original master copies exist, which are being used to reproduce duplicates microfilms for use by scholars. The recording of the treasures of the library by means of photography (microfilming) started in 1965 and the biggest part of the manuscript collection has been completed to date. The duplicates are since then prepared at the Monastery’s photographic studio, which is equipped with a microfilm copier and a film developer. Alternatively, conventional paper photocopies are made through a microfilm reader-photocopier, using the original microfilms. However, wear on the microfilms, the outdated equipment in need of restoration and the advance of technology and recording methods towards the digital age has called for our attention.
A digitization project started in 2003 with some initial funding from the Society for the Preservation of Greek Heritage (SPGH), which was used for basic equipment, the construction of a digital image browser interface and for the research and organization of the digitization of the microfilms. A 2005 offer by specialists estimated the cost of the conversion at €35,000 – €40,000.
Disinfestations project
Insect activity in the environment of the Monastery has been a long term problem for the collections of the library and the treasury. Silverfish and woodworms are some of the most common insects to be encountered and have caused irreplaceable damage to manuscripts, printed books, archival documents and icons of the Monastery.
The ongoing nature of this type of damage marks it as an emergency. The principle of preventing further insect damage from individual objects is the eradication of insects (eggs, larvae and fully grown insects,) by depriving them of oxygen. The artefact is placed into a hermetically sealed plastic bubble. Then, the oxygen rate is reduced to 0,2 %. After a number of days in this micro-climate, any kind of insect will be killed. It has been accepted worldwide as a very effective and safe method, both for the conservators who carry it out and for the objects. It has become one of the priorities of the conservation studio of the monastery. Approximate cost: €15,000 – €20,000.
A number of books from the 16th c. and 17th c. found at the chapel of Ag.Nikolas of Geros, Patmos in March 2006, suffering from extensive insect damage. Awaiting treatment
Disinfestation equipment
Artifact under treatment in a plastic bubble