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Storage Furniture

Furniture Construction

Regardless of the materials that make up the furniture, the type of furniture used and whether or not there is an adequate amount of it are crucial to the preservation of collections.

Basic Characteristics of Good Furniture

To avoid physical damage, storage furniture must be able to support the full weight and dimensions of the materials to be stored in it, without overcrowding. Furniture should not have rough surfaces, projections, or sharp edges that might cause damage. All shelves should be adjustable, and bottom shelves must be four to six inches above the floor. Arrange furniture within your storage area so that it allows for easy access and safe movement of collections.

Enclosed Furniture

Closed metal cabinets or bookcases provide security and protection from light, but they can pose problems stemming from the possibility of condensation within the cabinet(s) if the air inside is too humid. As the temperature in the room goes down, moisture condenses out of the air and may cause rusting and/or mold growth. Monitor closed cabinets using a small hygrometer, humidity cards, or a min/max thermohygrometer. Airing out the cabinet periodically will help, as would removing the doors. Condensation can also occur in wood cabinets, although it is less likely.

Compact Shelving

Compact shelving installations allow more collections to be stored in a smaller space by placing shelving units very close together on tracks. This type of shelving weighs significantly more than traditional shelving, so floor loading (e.g., ensuring that the building is strong enough to hold the shelving) is a concern.

It is important to make sure that items do not extend beyond the edges of the shelves; that a few inches of space is provided between units to assist air circulation and discourage mold growth; and that additional smoke detectors and sprinkler heads are provided in areas with compact shelving.

Take a few moments to look at the following dos and don'ts for storage. What is represented in each?

  See a Storage Furniture Checklist (PDF, 232k).