DH@Wake Presents Fenella France, Library of Congress

Dr. France is the Chief of the Preservation Research and Testing Division at the Library of Congress and is an international specialist on the environmental deterioration of cultural objects.?Highlights of her work?include using spectral imaging technology to uncover?Thomas Jefferson’s revisions?on a Declaration of Independence draft and performing a single fiber analysis of the original American flag. In addition to using cutting-edge technology to examine really old artifacts non-invasive ways, France also uses visualization software such as?IIIF?to present her findings to the public in engaging ways.

In her talk, “Within and Beyond: From Materiality to Visualization,” Dr. France will discuss new techniques and non-invasive instrumentation that have allowed discoveries in cultural heritage materials, from books to maps to sound recordings. She will demonstrate how her team has been able to delve beneath the surface of objects to uncover lost and hidden text, view layers of pigments that might show trade routes, and examine degradation that provides hints of the history of an object. In addition to providing a better understanding of the historical moment in which an object was created, these discoveries inform decisions about the long-term preservation and stabilization of collection materials. Dr. France will also discuss how access and engagement with diverse audiences are enhanced via technologies such as IIIF as she works to ensure the historic collections remain relevant and accessible.

Please join us for the DH@Wake Lecture on January 30 at 3:30, and the reception to follow! This event is open to everyone, and no RSVP is required.