Planning, Supplies, and Training for the Rehousing and Storage of the GBL Photographic Collection

FAIN: PG-233564-16

Trustees of Indiana University (Bloomington, IN 47405-7000)
Dru Evan McGill (Project Director: May 2015 to February 2016)
Melody K. Pope (Project Director: February 2016 to September 2017)

Hiring a consultant to conduct a preservation assessment and workshop for staff on proper care and handling, and purchase of storage furniture and supplies, for a photography collection documenting archaeological sites, primarily in the state of Indiana.  The 12,000 photographic prints, 9,000 negatives, and 8,000 slides document archaeological sites and artifacts representing the full range of human occupation in Midwestern North America, including the Mississippian-period Angel Mounds site, located on the Ohio River.

The Glenn A. Black Laboratory of Archaeology (GBL) at Indiana University will engage a paper and film conservation specialist to develop and guide implementation of a detailed plan for improved storage and rehousing of the GBL's photographic collection. The GBL photographic collection includes negatives, prints, and slides totaling nearly 30,000 items. This special collection represents nearly 100 years of archaeological practice in the greater Midwestern United States, and covers a variety of topics including archaeological excavations, early scientific leaders in the field, artifact assemblages, educational programs, events for visitors, and historical documentation of the GBL. Most of the historic photos are original, unique, and irreplaceable. Funds will be used to engage the professional conservator to provide conservation assessments and on-site training, and purchase storage furniture and preservation supplies recommended by the conservator.