- Who: The Getty Conservation Institute (USA)
- What: Donated dozens of books
- Where: Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
- Why: To support conservation and heritage studies
Getty Institute’s Generous Gift: A Deep Dive
The donation, facilitated by ABU’s own Terry Little, a Senior Lecturer in Archaeology and Heritage Studies, includes publications covering both the theory and practice of conserving and managing museum collections, monuments, and archaeological sites. Think of it as a complete toolkit for aspiring conservation experts!
Who is Terry Little?
Terry Little, the man who made this happen, recently wrapped up a three-month residency at the Getty Trust in Los Angeles, California, as a conservation scholar. His experience and connections proved invaluable in securing this donation for ABU.
What’s So Special About These Books?
These aren’t just any books! They delve into the nitty-gritty of preserving our cultural heritage. We are talking about:
- Theoretical frameworks for conservation
- Practical techniques for managing museum collections
- Strategies for preserving historical monuments
- Methods for protecting archaeological sites
Where Will the Books Be Housed?
The books will find a home in ABU’s Kashim Ibrahim Library. This ensures that students and staff in archaeology, architecture, heritage studies, and conservation have easy access to these invaluable resources. It’s like having a world-class conservation library right on campus!
The Vice-Chancellor Speaks
Prof. Kabiru Bala, ABU’s Vice-Chancellor, expressed his gratitude to the Getty Conservation Institute and Terry Little for their generous contribution. He emphasized the importance of these resources for advancing conservation efforts in Nigeria and beyond.
Why This Matters: Conservation in Nigeria
Nigeria boasts a rich and diverse cultural heritage, from ancient artifacts to historical monuments. However, these treasures are often under threat from environmental factors, neglect, and even looting. This donation will empower ABU to train the next generation of conservation professionals who can safeguard Nigeria’s history for future generations. Consider this book donation as a catalyst for:
- Improved conservation practices nationwide
- Greater awareness of the importance of preserving cultural heritage
- Enhanced research and innovation in the field of conservation