What is "leafcasting"

n. A means of strengthening paper so as to preserve it, covering existing pieces of weak paper with stronger sheets using mechanical equipment.

Leafcasting is a method of strengthening paper so as to preserve it. The process must be performed on a perfectly calibrated machine to avoid damaging the paper. There are few institutions around the world that have the capabilities to perform leafcasting treatments. Leafcasting fills in parts that may be missing in papers by the design of conservators or by age. The process covers an existing piece of weak paper with a stronger sheet, thus increasing its future usability. As few institutions have the required equipment, leafcasting is not a popular form of paper strengthening.

Computerized leafcasting was first employed in the mid-1980s at the Folger Shakespeare Library. More information about the Folger Shakespeare Library's leafcasting processes can be found: http://www.folger.edu/template.cfm?cid=889.