I have dealt with it before in a couple different places. Whether to do it depends on the system used before and how much time you have on your hands. If it does make sense, perhaps keep those pieces numbered that way with new ones having a normal system. If it is whacky and confusing, it is worth fixing once and for all with standard numbers so the entire collection is consistent.  

The one thing to remember is to document all numbers associated with a piece. Whatever the system or how backwards it is, there may be records or other information organized by number and you don't want to lose the ability to connect the dots later. If your database allows fields for other numbers that can help if not, even having a notebook or excel sheet with the reference helps. 

Elizabeth Walton



-----Original Message-----
>From: Annita Linscheid <[log in to unmask]>
>Sent: Jun 27, 2007 10:42 AM
>To: [log in to unmask]
>Subject: Renumbering old collection
>
>Is there information anywhere on the pros and cons of renumbering an old
>collection. I can't seem to get much information on this. I am sure small
>local volunteer run museums have had issues in this area when trying to
>update. I desperately need some info.
>
>Thank you,
>A.
>
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