In most instances, general collection material is repaired using basic book repair techniques and sent back to the shelves. Exceptions include:

1. Large text blocks, oversize items, and cut/glued bindings that would benefit from commercial rebinding or re-casing

2. Items that were published before 1920 or that may be out of print or are rare in OPAC that may benefit from 100% conservation treatment (i.e. reversible)

3. Items that were published before 1820 (these items are automatically referred to Special Collections and/or given a reversible conservation treatment)

4. Items that have unique bindings, have special relevance to Vassar or the region, are rare (first editions), or have special attributes such as original illustrations or prints (these items are treated on an individual basis).