Abstract
Since bulky books have been replaced with digital resources in libraries, these institutions have needed to adapt. According to the Chronicle of Higher Education (2022) “libraries are leveraging special collections to carve out niches for their institutions and bolster connections with students and the local community.” Some libraries have increased their museum exhibit areas. In the Fall of 2022, a University museum contacted on-campus researchers with a request for an analysis of existing conditions in their archival display area. They intended to borrow several priceless medieval manuscripts and host a traveling exhibit. Challenges with displaying fragile, old and priceless documents include that while light helps patrons to see the displayed artifacts, light damages the artifact. The lender required a technical report on the existing conditions in the intended display space. The researchers followed industry procedures and utilized a two different light meters to take a total of 72 horizontal spot measurements of illuminance in footcandles over a 1’0” x 1’-0” grid over the display tabletops. The room was found to be illuminated with 2x4 fluorescent troffers, ceiling mounted. Considering both meters’ readings, the minimum measurement was measured as 58.2 footcandles and the maximum reading was 75 footcandles. The results were acceptable to the loaner and the documents are currently on display for campus and community patrons. Images of the loaned manuscripts as well as the measurement procedures will be shared. Implications for libraries and museums desiring to borrow and exhibit other priceless documents and other special collections are presented.
Presenters
Paulette R. HebertProfessor, Design and Merchandising, Oklahoma State University, Oklahoma, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
2023 Special Focus—Museum Transformations: Pathways to Community Engagement
KEYWORDS
Lighting, Special Collections Exhibit, Library, Medieval Manuscripts
