The Conservation Laboratory was created in 1970 by conservator Paul Banks following the breakup of the Technical Department, which from 1965 to 1970 included conservation activities. The Laboratory was responsible for paper and leather conservation and restoration and fine binding. In 1975 the Conservation Laboratory became part of the Conservation Section of the newly formed Conservation Department.

Correspondence, notes, reports, and materials samples. Includes records of book adhesive tests (1971-1972) and paper tests (1966-1972), surveys of item documentation practices at other conservation facilities, notes by Paul Banks regarding the registration of Newberry Library artifacts (Ayer Art), and files concerning the creation of Newberry conservation exhibits and their loan to other institutions.