Ann Lindsey on Dealing with Poisonous Pigments: Arsenic in Nineteenth Century Books and Paper

September Evening Program

It is well known that copper arsenic compounds were used as a green pigment in textiles and home furnishings during the 19th century. In 2019, Winterthur/University of Delaware Program in Art Conservation, embarked on a study of green cloth covered bindings from the 19th century and continues to lead the way on research regarding copper arsenic compounds in library materials. This presentation will be about the University of Chicago Library’s response to arsenic in books, and will give suggestions about how that can be adapted for smaller collections.

Ann Lindsey has been the Head of Conservation at the University of Chicago Library since 2009. She heads a team of conservation professionals who work to conserve and preserve print collections in all of the Library’s collections. Ann holds a Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science and an Advanced Certificate in Book and Paper Conservation from the University of Texas at Austin. Prior to coming to the University of Chicago Library, Ann was a Conservator at the University of California at Berkeley and at the Huntington Library in San Marino, California.

Portions of this program were underwritten by a bequest of the estate of Peggy Sullivan.

This all live event will include a buffet dinner suitable for all diets (vegan and vegetarian) and will conclude with a sweets assortment. Club members: remember to bring your Caxton badge.

Transportation to the Union League Club at 65 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago.

The Union League Club is easily accessible through many public transportation methods. Additionally, the following options are available for those who wish to travel by cab or car.

The Union League Club front desk offers a connection to cab service through Curb. The desk will call cabs for members and all guests while allowing riders to remain inside until the cab arrives. No curb side wait. Cabs will accept all payment forms, following the payment procedures you experience with a street-hailed cab.

Spot Hero is an independent parking option, generally offering spots at the 318 S. Federal Street garage adjacent to the Union League Club. You may reserve and pay for a guaranteed parking spot through the Spot Hero app or website (spothero.com).