We have a relatively small collection and we
number both archival collections and object collections with a sequential
number system (since I do it all in this department) plus with many accessions
from a donor or collector - the collection includes papers/documents and
3-dimensional artifacts. We do
assign collection numbers as well (according to record groups) since we have
had a number of people donate items in numerous accessions so having a
collection number helps when cataloging.
Lisa Moellering
Curator of Collections/Registrar
Holocaust Museum Houston
5401 Caroline Street
Houston, Texas 77004
713.942.8000 x110
713.942.7953 (fax)
-----Original
Message-----
From: Museum discussion list
[mailto:[log in to unmask]]On
Behalf Of George Garner
Sent: Wednesday, October 23, 2002
5:59 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Assigning numbers /
defining an archive collection
Dear
all,
I am
debating on how (and if), precisely, I will number a previously unnumbered
archive collection. The collection consists of potentially private records from
a (now defunct) non-profit organization, non-private records, newspaper
articles, sports handbooks, video and film. We are a brand new institution, so
our policy about archives vs. objects has yet to be written (your input will
help me write it!).
The
readings I have been able to get my hands on thus far have given little help.
_New Museum Registration Methods_ has two pages about numbering, and their
section on archives is geared more toward institutional archives as opposed to
non-private archive collections. I haven't been able to find a good book, like
_George Garner, Read This To Answer Your Questions_. :)
My
questions are:
1.
What, precisely, is contained in an "archive" and how would I treat
them differently than my objects in terms of numbering/record keeping?
2. When
is an artifact an "archive" as opposed to an "object."
Precise definitions of each will be useful when I update my collections policy.
3. Is
there a standard numbering system for archives that differs from objects?
Should I keep my current system (NSMHF "4 digit year"."Acc.
#"."Item w/in acc.") but include a pre(suff)ix? i.e., NSMHF
2002.4.5 - A? NSMHF-A 2002.4.5?
Some
details about my current setup:
I am
using PastPerfect which automatically assigns an 'A' or 'O' upon printout based
upon Archives or Objects. It may mean a separate system is unnecessary? Also, I
have received donations of objects with 2-d items probably destined for an
archive (e.g. newspaper clippings, etc.) - I suffer from the "it's
old - let's give it to the Museum!" bug among donors. I'd like to
keep accession numbers for each, but I'm not married to any one idea.
I know
this is a huge amount of information, however I am grateful for any and all
advice. Also, if there is an article/book/webpage that I haven't found yet,
please feel free to steer me there.
Thanks
in advance!
All my
best,
George
Garner
National Speedskating Museum and Hall of
Fame
George Garner, Director and Curator
P.O. Box 3120, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
(518) 587-2609
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