Project

Due to the sweeping effects of the war and overwhelming reconstruction priorities, the Croatian government was unable immediately to address all demands required to rebuild the country and its infrastructure. WMF became involved with the Franciscan Monastic Library in 1996 and participated in rehabilitation efforts. (...)

Due to the sweeping effects of the war and overwhelming reconstruction priorities, the Croatian government was unable immediately to address all demands required to rebuild the country and its infrastructure. WMF became involved with the Franciscan Monastic Library in 1996 and participated in rehabilitation efforts. WMF secured funding from American Express, Rebuild Dubrovnik Fund, the Robert W. Wilson Challenge to Conserve Our Heritage, and the Headley Trust.

The restoration project focused on the repair of the roof and restoration of the entire second floor library. The project allowed the Monastery to incorporate modern library needs into the restoration program, improving conditions for researchers as well as the collections. Archival quality fire suppression and HVAC systems were installed. Several roof beams and timber frames were replaced and damage from rainwater and fungal infestations was mitigated. While WMF’s engagement ended in 2003, when the projects in which it was involved were completed, the work was catalytic and other projects were undertaken at the Monastery in subsequent years.