Museum Collections

Museums are committed to caring for their collections in perpetuity. Proper care involves preservation, maintenance, and conservation. In every exhibit space, light and climate are carefully controlled to protect objects from deterioration. When not on exhibit, the collections are kept in secured, climate-controlled storage spaces designed to optimize preservation. At HMNS, our Collections Department is responsible for the daily care of each object, no matter how big or small. We consider it our duty and privilege to safeguard our collections and ensure they are available for generations to come.

We need your help.

Follow these important visitor guidelines to help ensure the museum and its priceless treasures can be enjoyed by future generations.

Keep food and drinks in designated areas.
Different materials attract various pests, which can cause significant damage over time. For instance, roaches and silverfish are drawn to paper and books, while moths target wool and silk, and termites are attracted to wood. Our team of experts conducts regular inspections to safeguard our collections. Please help us by respecting all food and drink guidelines, as your cooperation plays a vital role in maintaining a pest-free environment.

Avoid touching artifacts in the galleries.
While we welcome your curiosity and interest, we kindly remind visitors that improper handling is one of the greatest threats to our artifacts. Oils, sweat, and other substances from our hands can transfer to objects, causing long-term damage. Please refrain from touching the objects on display. Your care helps ensure their preservation for all to enjoy.

Please do not use flash photography and selfie sticks.
To preserve the beauty and integrity of our collections, we kindly ask visitors to be mindful of lighting. Excessive exposure to light, especially sunlight and fluorescent light, can accelerate the deterioration of photographs, textiles, and other delicate objects.