Kirstin Norwood-Williams is a book conservator, specialising in the preservation of archive and library collections with a focus on Western books and media. She’s currently working with Oxford’s Bodleian Libraries, advising and training staff on book and collection care practices, while also engaging with scholars and the public through tours, exhibitions and facilitating access to collection materials. In addition, she creates new work including gift bindings for library patrons, and historical facsimiles. Her QEST Scholarship will allow her to train in fine bookbinding with master bookbinder Kathy Abbott and aid deeper knowledge of book construction.
Working professionally since 2018, Kirstin is interested in the ethical principles that guide conservation work and how traditional craft skills inform contemporary practice. An important goal of hers is to preserve institutional knowledge (for the Bodleian Libraries, and the wider conservation community), ensuring cultural collections are cared for, for future generations. Since completing her MA in Book Conservation, she’s expanded her practical skills in historical binding structures, including a gothic binding. She also aims to advance her leather work techniques and understanding of forwarding and finishing, to improve her new bindings.
