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The collection of the Viennese private collector Erich Woldan (1901-1989) was, during his lifetime, probably the most comprehensive private collection of geographic books and maps in Austria. The collection contains more than 11000 works from the period ca. 1500 till 1918 in approx. 20000 volumes, pamphlets and maps.
However, time took its toll: centuries of usage and several earlier owners, who sometimes did not treat the material with sufficient care, have left their mark on a major part of the collection. We find bindings and blocks damaged by water and mildew, signs of infestations by worms and insects, ink corrosion and decaying paper.
The strained budget of the Austrian Academy of Sciences does not allow for the restoration and conservation even in those cases where matters are most urgent.
To address this problem, we now have launched our new "Sponsor a Book!" Preservation Program. One generous sponsor has already donated enough to allow us to have a very special case restored. Please consider following this example: you will help in preserving for the future this unique and precious part of our national heritage!
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