In most libraries, the conservation operation will focus on books and paper treatment, usually for rare/unique research material. Sometimes the facility will incorporate a bindery designed to process materials similar to the work performed by the commercial binder (periodical, monograph rebinding, etc). Perhaps one of the most important requirements for an area dedicated to conservation treatment is that the level of security be just as stringent as for the rare book room. Generally, this area will be equipped with benches and some power equipment. There should be at least two sinks: one for washing hands and utensils, and one for the aqueous treatment of rare/unique materials. The space should be well lit and clean, and should have good access to the loading dock. More space should be allowed than is immediately needed in order to accommodate future project work funded from external sources.

If the area does accommodate a sizeable binding operation and a paper/photograph conservation operation, some separation may be necessary to prevent the transfer of dust from books and supplies into the paper/photograph conservation area. The space for book conservation should be from 100 to 200 square meters, for paper/photograph conservation from 40 to 60 square meters. A space of 200 square meters should accommodate the work of eight book conservation staff.