More Than Just Glue: Towards a Conservation Philosophy for Adhesive Bindings
Presented by Karen Vidler FIIC, PMAICCM
Wednesday, 16 September 2026
12:30–1:30 pm AEST | Online Webinar
What happens when we stop asking “How do we replace the adhesive?” and start asking “How do we conserve the structure?”
Drawing on collaborative research and conservation work undertaken with Amalia Ranisau, book conservator Karen Vidler FIIC, PMAICCM will explore the conservation of nineteenth-century caoutchouc (rubber adhesive) bindings through a detailed case study recently published in the IADA Journal of Paper Conservation.
The presentation will consider how historical context, structural understanding, materials and deterioration, conservation ethics, and stewardship can shape treatment decisions. Rather than approaching adhesive bindings simply as failed sewn structures, Karen will explore how we might recognise them as intentional historical technologies — and what this means for developing a conservation philosophy that preserves their structural and technological significance.
The webinar will include a 45-minute presentation followed by 15 minutes of Q&A.
Can’t attend live? All registered participants will receive access to the webinar recording for three months following the event, so you can watch or revisit the presentation at a time that suits you.
Registration fees:
Students — $5
AICCM Members — $10
Non-members — $20
Register here: https://www.trybooking.com/DPIWB
This webinar will be particularly relevant to book and paper conservators, archivists, librarians, rare book collectors, and anyone interested in the relationship between conservation ethics, material history and treatment decision-making.
We hope you can join us for this thought-provoking exploration of structure, ethics and decision-making in book conservation!
This event has been brought to you by AICCM’s Book and Paper SIG