Effective preservation planning is fundamental to maintaining museum collections for future generations. This comprehensive guide outlines the essential elements of a successful preservation strategy.
Risk Assessment
Begin with a thorough assessment of potential risks to your collection:
- Environmental conditions
- Natural disasters
- Human factors
- Building systems
- Security vulnerabilities
Environmental Management
Implement comprehensive environmental controls:
- Temperature monitoring and control
- Humidity management
- Light exposure limitation
- Air quality control
- Pest management
Collection Care Policies
Develop and document detailed care procedures:
- Handling protocols
- Cleaning schedules
- Condition reporting
- Treatment priorities
- Emergency response procedures
Resource Allocation
Plan for the resources needed to maintain preservation standards:
- Staff training
- Equipment maintenance
- Materials and supplies
- Conservation services
- Emergency response materials