Contract for Conservation and Collections Management support (Paperbased collections to Hartlepool Borough Council as part of the Museum of Hartlepool's Tides of Change project.

Hartlepool Borough Council (HBC) Museum and Gallery Team are seeking a qualified and experienced collections specialist as part of the 'Tides of Change: Revitalising the Museum of Hartlepool and PS Wingfield Castle' project.

Context for the Brief

We are seeking an experienced paper conservator or collections specialist to support the assessment, conservation, and long-term care of our paper-based collections during the Development and Delivery Phases of the 'Tides of Change' project - subject to a successful Delivery Phase award.

Our paper-based collections include works on paper (drawings, watercolours, and prints), photographs, maps, documents, certificates, and archival materials. A key component is the Robert Wood Collection, named after local historian Robert Wood, who compiled over 40,000 items of historical printed ephemera. These include posters, memorial cards, advertisements, and business stationery salvaged from local printers. The collection provides vital insight into Hartlepool's social, commercial, and civic life from the 19th century onward. Due to their fragility and cultural significance, items within this collection require assessment, conservation, and in some cases facsimile reproduction to enable future display and access.

Tides of Change is made possible thanks to support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and National Lottery players.