Museum storage practices: evidence in textile and costume collections

Abstract

Museums and collections store and interpret important objects that document human life, cultural values, production processes, technology, and artistic creations. Historic textiles and costume are irreplaceable records of our past requiring care, preservation and conservation in order for them to survive (Harris, 1977; Keck, 1974). Museums have many purposes; including, caring, preserving and maintaining objects in the safest and most accessible manner possible (Bandes, 1984; Warhurst, 1984). Additional functions are to research and interpret the objects and their use, function, style, aesthetics, and other aspects from the focus of the culture in which they originated in order to educate the public (Coleman, 1978b; Denford, Lewis & Viner, 1984; Warhurst, 1984). When the object IS not being used, it is stored. For most objects in museums and collections, the majority of time is spent in storage. Since this is the case, collection care and management should begin with facilities that house the objects In the safest and most secure way possible (Bandes, 1984; Burcaw, 1975; Hilberry & Weinberg, 1981). Appropriately designed, organized, and maintained storage facilities are necessary to stabilize the condition of objects (Bandes, 1984). Current storage practices vary according to existing conditions in museums and collections. Ideal conditions provide an