Seminar: Sustainable Approaches to Collections Stewardship in Uncertain Times

Abstract

Wondering how to create a stable environment for your special collections without wrecking ours? Come hear the experiences of recent NEH awardees as they discuss sustainable approaches to collections care. They will cover the work involved in bringing together interdisciplinary teams of collections managers, facilities staff, engineers, and consultants; the testing and implementation of sustainable preservation strategies; and their institution’s current needs and future goals. As part of NEH’s Sustaining Cultural Heritage Collections grant program, these projects are case studies on preventive conservation measures that prolong the useful life of collections and support institutional resilience by balancing effectiveness, cost, and environmental impact. We hope to elicit candid discussion on the opportunities and challenges involved in sustainable preservation programs, as well as provide actionable steps for participants to consider when managing their own collections and facilities. ----- Moderator: Cathleen Tefft, National Endowment for the Humanities