John,  Statement panels are useful but the most striking statement I've seen
regarding damage to materials as a result of  touching are panels of different
materials found in the collection which are half covered with plexi or glass.
Visitors are encouraged to touch the uncovered half. The damage caused by
touching is obvious within a few months. Fred

John Michael Nolan wrote:

> Our museum would like to post an expanded statement on why visitors are not
> to touch the museum objects and I would appreciate if anyone can share
> similar statements that they use. If you could email or snail mail a copy I
> would be obliged.
>
> Gratefully,
>
> John M. Nolan
> Curator
> Bob Jones University Museum & Gallery, Inc.
> Greenville, SC 29614