In a message dated 95-11-17 09:42:32 EST, [log in to unmask] (Robin
Lipp) writes:

>One crucial way we control non-curatorial use of objects is by our "A, B,
>C" designation system:
>"A" objects can only be handled by collections
>staff--with gloves where appropriate--displayed and stored in
>environmentally correct conditions.  These objects are important to the
>museum and our constituents for any number of reasons; usually they
>are valuable or hard to replace.
>"B" objects are more readily replaceable, and may be handled by
>non-collections staff--with gloves--among our visitors.
>"C" objects comprise our educational handling collection, and may be
>handled by our visitors in supervised situtations.

Excellent idea, i'm going to pass this one on to my boss. Currently we have
an "interpretive" collection - guns that can be fired whenever. Their value
lies in their usability for "firing research." On a less serious note, we get
to wear them around the office on "Western Day" indulging in a bit of fantasy
that is understandable given the treasures all around us! (:?])