Improving your collections storage doesn’t have to cost big bucks! You can make a big difference just by doing a little housecleaning and reorganizing. Follow these six simple steps. Take photos of your progress!

Get Started:

• Designate a space just for collections storage! It should be a clean, dry space, preferably separate from other activities, ideally one that can be locked. (If all you have is a small space that must be shared with other storage or activities, separate them as much and as clearly as possible.)
• Remove any non-collection items (cleaning and exhibit supplies, sales items, office furniture and equipment, etc.) from the collections storage space and store them separately; remove and dispose of any inappropriate materials (broken equipment, cardboard boxes, paint cans, etc.)
• Avoid using collections pieces such as original furniture for storage: remove any items inside them and store them in acid-free materials.
• House objects and boxes of similar size together, and organize them so they are easy to find and access and you can easily dust around them.
• Create a designated “oversize space” on your shelves for large objects and containers to ensure all materials on the shelves are fully supported. Move any objects sitting directly on the floor onto shelves, low platforms or blocks to get them up off the floor; if that is not possible, place an inert moisture barrier (like polyethylene sheeting) underneath the pieces.
• Darken your storage space completely by covering the windows and keeping the lights out when the space is not in use.

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