Eric Weinmann Head of Conservation and Preservation

The Folger Shakespeare Library, located on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, seeks a skilled conservation professional to lead the long-term care and treatment of its world-renowned collection as the next Eric Weinmann Head of Conservation and Preservation. This individual, reporting to the Associate Librarian for Collections Care and Development, oversees the Collections Division’s Conservation and Preservation program, including the strategic leadership for the safeguarding of printed books, manuscripts, paintings, works on paper, realia, and textiles across all spaces where collections are stored, displayed, used or transported. Working closely with colleagues across Collections and Exhibitions and throughout the institution, the Head of Conservation and Preservation ensures that Folger’s collections receive the highest standards of care and that both traditional and emerging preservation practices are integrated into institutional planning.

The Head of Conservation and Preservation manages the Gundersheimer Conservation Lab and leads a dedicated team of four conservators. They oversee and complete complex treatments, establish preservation priorities, guide preventive strategies, and serve as a key advisor on loans, exhibitions, storage planning, and emergency preparedness. They also represent the team to external partners, support grant-funded conservation initiatives, and contribute to public engagement and professional dialogue.