ABSTRACT
There should be no difference between the quality of storage and exhibition facilities as both provide the same functions for a collection. These functions are security and preservation and are the primary responsibilities of a museum towards its collection. Storage facilities are built to house a large number of objects as efficiently as possible. As a result objects can be on shelves, in cupboards, boxes, trays or drawers in fixed or movable racking. However, the storage is arranged the objects should be separated so they are not touching or piled on top of one another. They should be protected from dust, insects and pests, mould growth and corrosive gases and the relative humidity and temperature should be stable and in a range which does not cause deterioration. Objects should be ordered so that they can be readily located and are easily observable so that the presence or absence of individual items is instantly recognized. The store-room must also be secure. The purpose of an exhibition is to show the objects in such a way that the public has full appreciation of them. As a result a considerable amount of thought is given to the layout of the show-cases and to the positioning of free-standing objects in the gallery. The requirements for the objects in the gallery are the same as in storage and galleries should be kept free of dust, mould, insects and corrosive gases. The relative humidity, temperature and light levels should be such as are required for the type of object being exhibited.
