Book restoration helps preserve ancient civilizations

A staff member from the Gansu Ancient Book Restoration Center works to repair an ancient book in Lanzhou, Gansu province, Jan 15, 2016. [Photo by Pei Qiang/Asianewsphoto]

The Gansu Ancient Book Restoration Center has long been dedicated to repairing ancient books. Recent photos reveal what goes into preserving an ancient book and how these technicians work to restore the volumes to their original appearance. The whole process involves dozens of steps and demands much patience and high concentration.

Each book carries history and the memory of a civilization from long ago. As time passes by, worms, rats and mold inflict damage and pose a threat to the stability of ancient books. Those who repair the valuable artifacts are key to recovering the original look of the old books and extend their existence.