I have in front of me a book on ferns , printed in 1855. A previous
(unidentified) owner has very carefully placed dried specimens of
ferns in the book. They are not glued or pinned in any way and so
could be removed. Some are labelled, most have obviously been placed
in as examples of the type described on the pages. So, should I
remove them? They have stained the book in places. But if I remove
them what should I do with them? I know nothing about preserving
botanical specimens. I've discovered odd preserved flowers in books
before but never anything as systematic as this. It seems a shame to
disturb someone's work.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Many thanks,
Susan
Susan Stead
Rare Books Librarian
UCL Library Special Collections
University College London
Gower Street
London WC1E 6BT