This is my first post -- I'll try to keep my query brief. I'm the director of a small, upstate NY historical society. We own two 19th century townhouses, totalling about 16,000 sq. ft. (all museum functions are currently incorporated into this complex). I am looking to talk with other smaller museums who have recently undergone construction projects (renovations or new construction). We have lots of questions regarding space/function allocation, moving collections as preparation to construction, cost effectiveness of permanent off-site storage, and the logistics of same. One option we are contemplating is off-site storage for our non-fine arts collections in a location that could eventually provide us with curatorial workspace and programming/exhibition space. That might generate visibility for us in another part of our city or county. However, we're not sure we can afford to do this despite the fact that we'd be paying for the start-up with part of a capital campaign. Let me also say that we've done the off-site storage route with a smaller amount of the collection and know well its drawbacks. Would appreciate your thoughts. -- Anne Ackerson Compuserve 103604,2054