You might check out the Northwest Coast and Arctic Galleries at the Field
Museum.   About 75% of those collections are on exhibit.   Most of the staff
that was involved in that exhibit is no longer at the Field, but perhaps
Jonathan Haas, the curator of the North American collection might be
helpful.

The Pacific exhibit also has several plexi-covered drawers that provide
access to additional objects.

Janice Klein
Director
Mitchell Museum of the American Indian, Kendall College


-----Original Message-----
From: Michael Panhorst <[log in to unmask]>
To: [log in to unmask] <[log in to unmask]>
Date: Friday, February 16, 2001 9:44 AM
Subject: open storage, dense display considerations


Open storage or dense display appears to be an increasingly popular way to
make larger portions of museum collections accessible to the public.  We are
considering that option with our building expansion that is in the design
stage.  We would be grateful to hear from those of you who have opinions or
experience in this area.

In particular, what are some good examples where it has worked?

Are there any in Chicago or the upper midwest (where we would be more likely
to be able to visit)?

What is the best thing about dense display?

What is the greatest liability with dense display?



Michael W. Panhorst, Director
Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum
Saginaw Valley State University
University Center, MI 48710
517.790.5698
fax 791.7721

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