When doing research in the field of manuscript studies, scholars are not just handling precious and at times unique artefacts, but parts of the cultural heritage of people. Often, these artefacts need conservational treatment before thorough scientific investigation. Thus, preserving written heritage and studying manuscript cultures go hand in hand.

Against this background, the Centre for the Study of Manuscript Cultures engages in projects focusing on the ‘heritage’ meaning of written artefacts, i.e. the need for preservation, the identity-defining role of written artefacts, and the transformation of written heritage over times so that it remains meaningful as part of the cultural identity of future generations.

Different aspects of these projects and ethical considerations are discussed in CSMC’s Short Lecture Series ‘Handle with Care’.