My name is Jamie Chmara and I am book conservator in training at West Dean College in Chichester, United Kingdom. In my studies, I have become interested in heritage science and the use of newer and non-destructive technologies to advance the understanding of art and possible treatments.

Prior to studying book conservation, I trained as a librarian and archivist for many years, receiving a Masters Degree in Library and Information Sciences and a Graduate Certificate in Archival Administration from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan, USA.

Outside of book conservation, I love to walk and hike, ride my bicycle, discover new music and podcasts, travel and explore, learn new things, and of course, read!

Check out this image of me driving an operating replica of Henry Ford’s first gasoline-powered automobile from 1896, The Quadricycle! I had the opportunity to drive it while working at The Henry Ford Museum during the summer of 2024, in order to run out the gasoline still in the tank when it was filled for demonstrations during the Old Car Festival.