Work Table, date unknown
Collections staff have used this work table for many years in collections storage. The items on top of the table are some of the materials that they use to keep objects safe. Acid-free materials are used to prevent further damage from being done to objects with natural acidity in them. Boxes and folders, along with inert polypropylene protective sleeves, keep surfaces free of dust and irritants, all in an effort to slow down the process of organic decay. When handling objects, wearing cotton or nitrile gloves protects them from the natural oil in the skin. All of these materials, along with many other efforts, go into caring for the objects in the museum’s collection in perpetuity.