Once we take an object into our collection, we have pledged to take care of it. The best care for objects is to keep them in a stable environment, and limit their exposure to light.
Light is filtered, as is the air.
Collections not on exhibit are stored in a locked storage area. Ila Wiedemer sews protective fabric over the fragile silk binding of an Ojibwe bandolier bag. Sometimes, objects require more than simply a stable environment. We have trained staff that can clean, stabilize, and prepare objects for exhibit. Volunteer Mary Collins carefully cleans the feathers of a headdress in preparation for an exhibit.