Preventative Conservation
Care of Collections, Collections Managment
All measures and actions aimed at avoiding and minimizing future deterioration or loss. These measures and actions are indirect – they do not interfere with the materials and structures of the items. They do not modify their appearance.
Examples of preventive conservation are appropriate measures and actions for registration, storage, handling, packing and transportation, security, environmental management (light, humidity, pollution and pest control), emergency planning, education of staff, public awareness, legal compliance.
Peterborough Museum and Archives
In Care of Collections, I was responsible for cleaning the artifacts and storage environment of the Peterborough Museum and Archives Collection through vacuuming, sweeping, dusting and wiping down surfaces. During the cleaning process, I took note of damage and concerns and reported them to Collections Management.
Lang Pioneer Village
I also participated in winterizing Lang Pioneer Village. Building interiors and exteriors were thoroughly cleaned and artifacts were blanketed to prevent damage and dust accumulation over the winter.
These experiences allowed me to gain an increased carefulness in the handling and treatment of artifacts and their environments. Through the practical applications of the preventative conservation theory learned in class, I was able to learn to work effectively, carefully and with attention to detail.