The Peterborough Museum and Archives is responsible for the conservation of all objects and archival material in our collection. Conservation means all actions aimed at the safeguarding of cultural property for the future.
Preventative conservation is the action taken to prevent deterioration and damage by identifying, avoiding, blocking and modifying the agents of deterioration found in museums. This includes:
- Physical forces
- Thieves and vandals
- Dissociation
- Fire
- Water
- Pests
- Pollutants
- Light, ultraviolet and infrared
- Incorrect temperature
- Incorrect relative humidity
A qualified conservator provides treatment on objects and archival material for our collection. Conservation treatment includes any action taken to modify, repair or restore cultural property. The aim is to preserve aesthetic and historic values, and incorporates ethical practice. Conservation treatments for objects and/or archival material are prioritized under the following criteria:
- Requiring emergency treatment or stabilization
- Historic or artistic significance
- Required for an exhibition or loan
- Required for educational programs
More information
To learn more on preventative and treatment conservation visit the following websites:
Canadian Association for Conservation of Cultural Property
Canadian Association of Professional Conservators
Canadian Conservation Institute
Fleming College, Collections Conservation and Management Programs
