I would agree that paper hygrothermograph records are problematic enough to pitch after some number of years determined by your needs/CMP. However, datalogger files are small, and can be kept indefinitely. There is no reason not to build up a long history. If your HVAC changes, it gives you the opportunity to compare environmental changes in detail. If anyone ever wants to go back and look at what conditions were present during a certain show, or what certain objects have been exposed to over the years, a history of data would provide the perfect resource.

I would suggest that anyone who is archiving old datalogger files also archive the current version of the program used to access them, just in case.

Mark Janzen
Registrar/Collection Manager
Ulrich Museum of Art
Martin H. Bush Outdoor Sculpture Collection
316-978-5850

-----Original Message-----
From: Museum discussion list [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Anne Lewellen
Sent: Friday, November 20, 2009 8:15 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: Datalogger record retention

I had a similar question a few years ago and talked to a National Park Service conservator. She talked to a few co-workers and said she wasn't aware of any such disposition schedule. However, she suggested to keep the records if they are still pertinent to the historical interpretation of the building, or are required to understand the building systems / functions / mechanical operations. So I take that to mean if your HVAC system has been replaced, you can probably pitch the records taken while the previous system was in use. 

Anne Lewellen
Museum Curator
National Park Service
Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve

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