Last year, DHPSNY published A Guide to Processing Plans, a technical bulletin designed to help collecting organizations plan and carry out archival processing work. Building on that resource, we are now pleased to announce the release of three new technical bulletins, covering the topics of preservation in exhibits, choosing a collections management system (CMS), and conducting a basic inventory. Read below to learn more about each new technical bulletin, available in both English and Spanish.
A Guide to Preservation in Exhibits
How do we prioritize preservation in exhibits? Keeping preservation top of mind while creating exhibits means balancing public access with long-term care of collections. By planning ahead and using safe, stable display methods, institutions can minimize risks and avoid costly conservation needs. This guide not only provides information about those topics but additionally outlines DIY and budget-friendly solutions, along with best practices when it comes to preservation in exhibits.
Read and download in English and Spanish.
A Guide to Choosing a CMS
What is a collections management system (CMS)? A collections management system is software that helps archives, museums, and similar organizations manage both the physical items in their collections and the information about them. A CMS organizes documentation, tracks the location and condition of items, supports staff communication, and can provide a platform for public access. This helpful guide outlines what to look for in a CMS, what collection managers and other staff should keep in mind before transferring data to one, and additional information about the process.
Read and download in English and Spanish.
A Guide to Conducting a Basic Inventory
This guide provides information about archival inventories, why one should be conducted, and how to begin planning your own. It differentiates between a basic inventory and a detailed inventory, and how conducting one can provide greater intellectual control, accountability, and budgeting resources. Additionally, steps are outlined on how to plan ahead, use tools that you already have, and decide exactly what information to record to make your inventory a success.
Read and download in English and Spanish.
Find technical bulletins and additional resources by accessing the DHPSNY resources page.