ILAB at the CERL Summer Security School

The Summer School brought together more than 40 senior librarians from across Europe, double the number of the previous year, to share expertise on safeguarding cultural heritage collections.

ILAB was invited to contribute to the programme with a presentation on security measures in the rare book trade, delivered by our new Library Liaison Working Group member, Emma Walshe, who spoke on “Communication with the Trade”.
Emma outlined how the rare book trade addresses collection security and highlighted the role of the ILAB Missing Books Register as a tool for reporting and sharing information on thefts. Her presentation was followed by a response from Greger Bergvall, Rare Book Librarian at the National Library of Sweden, and a lively discussion with participants.

The exchange underscored both the challenges and opportunities of closer cooperation between libraries and the trade. Questions from the group showed a strong interest in deepening this dialogue. Encouragingly, several participants said they planned to share information about the Missing Books Register with their colleagues, expanding its visibility within the library community.

Founded in 1992, the Consortium of European Research Libraries (CERL) is an international membership organisation dedicated to enhancing access to and preserving Europe’s printed and manuscript heritage from the hand-press period (c. 1455–1830). Today, CERL brings together 269 member institutions worldwide, ranging from national libraries and major research collections – such as the British Library, Bibliothèque nationale de France, and the National Library of Spain – to specialist archives and museums of the book. While centred on European heritage, CERL’s reach is global, with members in the United States, Latin America, and beyond. Through its programmes, working groups, and digital resources, CERL supports research and scholarship by fostering collaboration across borders and disciplines. The Security Working Group, which convened the Dublin Summer School, is particularly active, developing practical tools such as the Quick Audit Tool to help institutions evaluate and strengthen their security measures.

This engagement marks the beginning of a promising collaboration between ILAB and CERL. Strengthening ties with CERL’s Security Working Group will not only raise awareness of ILAB’s resources but also ensure that the trade and the library world continue to work hand in hand to protect our shared cultural heritage.