When you visit a museum, the art, historical objects, and exhibits seem to seamlessly transport you into worlds of history, culture, and creativity. But behind the scenes, there’s a web of departments working tirelessly to make that experience possible. This week, we’re shining a spotlight on one of the most vital yet often overlooked departments: Collections.
A peak into the West Chicago City Museum’s storage: photograph on the left shows two of our 3D object storage shelves, photograph on the right is a look in one of our many research file drawers
What Is the Collections Department?
The Collections Department is the guardian of a museum’s treasures. Their role involves managing, preserving, and protecting the objects, often referred to as artifacts, in the museum’s care. Whether it’s a century-old painting, a household gadget from the 1800s, or a piece of equipment from our local rail yards, the Collections team ensures that each piece is documented, conserved, and stored properly so that it is preserved for future generations.
Recent donation to the City Museum being catalogued along with other model railroad cars, currently on display on the second floor of the museum.
Key Responsibilities of the Collections Team
Cataloging and Documentation
Every object in the museum is cataloged with meticulous detail. This includes recording its provenance (history of ownership), condition, dimensions, materials, and other significant details. This information forms the foundation for research and exhibition planning.Conservation and Preservation
Objects in a museum’s collection often require specialized care to prevent deterioration. The Collections team monitors environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and light, which can impact the longevity of artifacts.Storage and Organization
Not every item in a museum’s collection is on display. The majority of our artifacts are stored in carefully controlled environments. The Collections team ensures that items are stored safely and can be retrieved efficiently when needed.Loans and Exhibitions
Museums often loan objects to other institutions or incorporate loans into their exhibitions. The Collections team oversees this process, ensuring that objects are transported and handled with the utmost care.Ethical Stewardship
Museums have a responsibility to ensure that their collections are acquired and maintained ethically. The Collections team plays a key role in adhering to state and federal laws, regulations, and guidelines related to repatriation, cultural sensitivity, and provenance research.
One of our many shelves of 2D objects preserved in the West Chicago City Museum’s collection.
Why Is This Work Important?
Without the work of the Collections Department, many of the objects we cherish in museums would be at risk of loss or damage. Their work allows us to connect with history, understand diverse cultures, and appreciate the beauty of the world around us. They’re not just preserving objects—they’re safeguarding stories.
A few pieces from the City Museum’s art collection and artifacts packed in boxes for preservation in museum storage.
Fun Fact:
Did you know that many museums only display a small fraction of their total collection? For instance, it’s estimated that less than 10% of the Louvre’s collection is on view at any given time. At the City Museum we display about 1% of our collection of 36,000 items related to West Chicago history, which is why we try to feature as many pieces and the stories behind them on our website and social media. Items not on display at museums remain in storage, expertly cared for by Collections teams until it is there turn to be showcased in museum exhibits!
Stay tuned next Monday as we explore another fascinating department and uncover more behind-the-scenes magic of museums. Have questions about Collections or museum work? Drop them in the comments or email us at wegohistory@gmail.com!
