Rehousing a ‘Working Collection’: Perspectives from the Johns Hopkins University Archaeological Museum

Abstract

Using the Johns Hopkins Archaeological Museum (JHAM) as a case study, this article explores the unique approaches used to rehouse a collection with a core teaching mission. Unlike the collections of more traditional museums, the JHAM's holdings are meant to be used by students, faculty, and researchers as a means of pursuing knowledge. Supporting this pedagogical mission requires innovative rehousing approaches that protect the collection while ensuring its use. This paper discusses recently implemented rehousing strategies that emphasize high visibility, ease of accessibility, and guided handling of objects, and considers the unique challenges and advantages of providing access to such a collection. Rehousing is also posited as only one aspect of collections care; rather, the authors propose that a more holistic approach to the long-term preservation of objects in the museum's care encompasses not only their physical stability through rehousing and conservation, but also the stability and stewardship of their provenance histories and collection data. The ultimate goal of these various modes of care should be ensuring that the collection “works” such that the use of objects maintains and extends their meanings and utility.

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