Hi Jenny, My department is currently budgeted a minimum of $500/year for routine collections maintenance of approximately 50,000 objects. $.01 per object. If any major conservation or other project is in the works, though, and is planned well in advance, I can fight for a larger share of the budget. I'd say $.01/object is a decent starting point for a small organization. But a state historical society? . . . If I can be of any further assistance, feel free to contact me off-list. Bethany Rutledge Director of Collections and Exhibits Thornton W. Burgess Society East Sandwich, MA ========================================================= 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).