Connecting to Collections Care

Hello Lovely People!

In June (fingers crossed) we will be finishing a complete HVAC renovation. I'll also be getting a new floor for Collection Storage after asbestos remediation. I would like to ask for any guidelines, advice, or hear any personal experience in returning your collection to storage after such an event. I'm doing my research, but nothing compares to hearing from those who have already gone though it. This will be a first for me and I'll need as much info going into it as possible so I can explain why everything can't go back right away. 

Thank you so much!!

-Bonnie

Hi Bonnie,

This is such an exciting phase - congrats on getting close to the finish line for the renovation!

I am the C2CC monitor for this period, and although I have limited experience going through a HVAC renovation myself, there are several things I would consider: 

- Environmental stabilization: New HVAC systems often take time to truly stabilize, even after install/commissioning. I would recommend continuous monitoring and waiting until temperature/RH are consistently within range (including inside cabinets/shelving, not just ambient space).

- Off-gassing and post-remediation concerns: New flooring, adhesives, sealants, and HVAC components can off-gas VOCs, and asbestos remediation can leave residual dust. Giving the space time to ventilate (ideally with filtration if available) is critical before reintroducing collections.

- Cleaning: Construction dust might get everywhere. Surfaces, shelving, and interiors of cabinets should be carefully cleaned before anything goes back.

- Phased move: Bringing collections back in stages can be really helpful. Starting with less sensitive materials allows you to monitor how the space performs before moving more vulnerable objects.

- Environmental monitoring: Dataloggers placed throughout the space (and inside enclosures) are helpful. 

- IPM reset: Construction can disrupt or introduce pest activity, so it's a good moment to reassess traps and protocols.

In my experience, it's not unusual for this process to take several weeks to a couple of months before full reoccupation, depending on how quickly conditions stabilize. I hope this is helpful!! I'll also follow up if community experts have additional experiences or insights to share.

Best,

Hello Lovely People!

In June (fingers crossed) we will be finishing a complete HVAC renovation. I'll also be getting a new floor for Collection Storage after asbestos remediation. I would like to ask for any guidelines, advice, or hear any personal experience in returning your collection to storage after such an event. I'm doing my research, but nothing compares to hearing from those who have already gone though it. This will be a first for me and I'll need as much info going into it as possible so I can explain why everything can't go back right away. 

Thank you so much!!

-Bonnie

Hi Bonnie,

This is such an exciting phase - congrats on getting close to the finish line for the renovation!

I am the C2CC monitor for this period, and although I have limited experience going through a HVAC renovation myself, there are several things I would consider: 

- Environmental stabilization: New HVAC systems often take time to truly stabilize, even after install/commissioning. I would recommend continuous monitoring and waiting until temperature/RH are consistently within range (including inside cabinets/shelving, not just ambient space).

- Off-gassing and post-remediation concerns: New flooring, adhesives, sealants, and HVAC components can off-gas VOCs, and asbestos remediation can leave residual dust. Giving the space time to ventilate (ideally with filtration if available) is critical before reintroducing collections.

- Cleaning: Construction dust might get everywhere. Surfaces, shelving, and interiors of cabinets should be carefully cleaned before anything goes back.

- Phased move: Bringing collections back in stages can be really helpful. Starting with less sensitive materials allows you to monitor how the space performs before moving more vulnerable objects.

- Environmental monitoring: Dataloggers placed throughout the space (and inside enclosures) are helpful. 

- IPM reset: Construction can disrupt or introduce pest activity, so it's a good moment to reassess traps and protocols.

In my experience, it's not unusual for this process to take several weeks to a couple of months before full reoccupation, depending on how quickly conditions stabilize. I hope this is helpful!! I'll also follow up if community experts have additional experiences or insights to share.

Best,

Hello Lovely People!

In June (fingers crossed) we will be finishing a complete HVAC renovation. I'll also be getting a new floor for Collection Storage after asbestos remediation. I would like to ask for any guidelines, advice, or hear any personal experience in returning your collection to storage after such an event. I'm doing my research, but nothing compares to hearing from those who have already gone though it. This will be a first for me and I'll need as much info going into it as possible so I can explain why everything can't go back right away. 

Thank you so much!!

-Bonnie