you may want to contact the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY.  They
had basement storage and recently expanded it (still below ground).  I don't
know what the outcome of this project was, but it sounds like a similar
situation to yours.  Don't forget to add to your argument that although
collections are better in the dark, people need sunlight!

-----Original Message-----
From: Museum discussion list [mailto:[log in to unmask]]On
Behalf Of Lenora Henson
Sent: Saturday, March 25, 2006 9:40 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Collections Storage


My institution is undertaking a sizable construction project that will
include a purpose-built collections storage area . . . in the basement.

I have repeatedly expressed my concern about the inherent problems
associated with below-grade collections storage (moisture levels, pests,
etc.), and have been assured that the new space will be designed perfectly
and that my concerns are unfounded.

I'd be interested in hearing from anyone who has experience dealing with
purpose-built below-grade collections storage.  How long ago was it built?
What works?  What doesn't work?  Would you recommend it to anyone else?
Why?  Why not?

Thanks for your help,
Lenora

=========================================================
Important Subscriber Information:

The Museum-L FAQ file is located at
http://www.finalchapter.com/museum-l-faq/ . You may obtain detailed
information about the listserv commands by sending a one line e-mail message
to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "help"
(without the quotes).

If you decide to leave Museum-L, please send a one line e-mail message to
[log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "Signoff
Museum-L" (without the quotes).

=========================================================
Important Subscriber Information:

The Museum-L FAQ file is located at http://www.finalchapter.com/museum-l-faq/ . You may obtain detailed information about the listserv commands by sending a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "help" (without the quotes).

If you decide to leave Museum-L, please send a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "Signoff Museum-L" (without the quotes).