Ancient books receive new life under skilled hands

The main paper used for restoration is handmade — produced using traditional papermaking techniques. Adhesives generally consist of pure wheat starch. The paste, a spray bottle, tweezers, a brush and a small hammer are the common tools used for diagnosis and repair.

"It is easy to get started but difficult to master," said Wu Feifei, the leader of the ancient book restoration group. "Even after years of working in ancient book restoration, when a damaged page of an ancient book is in my hands, I dare not be careless. Every step is crucial, and every process must be meticulous."

In 2005, the ancient book restoration group was officially established at the Shaanxi Provincial Library. It was followed in 2008 by creation of the Shaanxi Ancient Book Protection Center, which was approved by national authorities in 2015. Since the start of the work, more than 100 precious volumes have been successfully restored.