The Collection Management Workshop, held from March 10 to March 14, 2025, was an intensive, hands-on training event aimed at enhancing the expertise of cultural heritage professionals in preserving and managing valuable collections. The workshop was a key part of the prestigious Yale Directors Forum Fellowship, an international initiative supported by Yale University and administered by the Yale Institute for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage (Yale IPCH).
The workshop was facilitated by Anupam Sah, Founder of Anupam Heritage Lab and the Himalayan Society for Heritage and Art Conservation, whose guidance was instrumental in shaping the training. By the end of the workshop, participants were equipped to address both immediate and long-term challenges in collection care, tailored to their specific collections and professional responsibilities.
Day 1 & 2: Introduction to Collection Management
The first two days introduced foundational concepts in collection management, focusing on inventory control, risk management, and the condition assessment of cultural artifacts. Participants learned best practices for documenting collections, evaluating their value, and preparing them for conservation and exhibition. Practical sessions allowed attendees to apply these concepts in real-world scenarios, with an emphasis on understanding and managing the environmental factors that influence long-term preservation.
Day 3: Risk Assessment and Loan Preparation
On Day 3, the workshop delved deeper into risk assessment and the preparation of items for loan. Experts highlighted the importance of evaluating risks to collections, particularly when objects are being loaned out, and shared strategies for mitigating these risks. Special attention was given to controlling environmental factors such as light intensity, which plays a crucial role in preserving the integrity of the collections. Best practices for preparing and handling items for loan were also shared to ensure their safety during the borrowing period.
Day 4: Paper Collection Preservation and the Opening of the CCA Collection Care Centre
The focus on Day 4 was on preserving paper-based collections. Participants received specialized training on how to assess the condition of paper materials, identify prior repairs, and create detailed condition reports for ongoing preservation. Practical techniques for the safe handling of fragile loaned items, such as using safety scrolls, were also demonstrated. The day also marked the grand opening of the CCA Collection Care Centre, a newly established facility dedicated to enhancing collection preservation practices and ensuring the long-term integrity of cultural heritage collections.
Conclusion
The Collection Management Workshop provided a comprehensive toolkit for participants to improve their practices in collection management. From mitigating environmental risks to preserving paper-based materials and preparing items for loan, the event empowered cultural heritage professionals to implement effective strategies in their respective roles. The workshop also facilitated valuable networking opportunities, allowing attendees to exchange knowledge and strengthen leadership in the cultural heritage sector.
The Yale Directors Forum Fellowship continues to foster global leadership in cultural heritage institutions, and the workshop served as a pivotal platform for participants to further their expertise and commitment to preserving invaluable collections. As we move forward, the insights gained from this workshop will contribute to the ongoing efforts of safeguarding cultural heritage for future generations.
