PLO: 5 Identify needs and connect individuals and communities with information that engages and empowers them
SAA Core Value(s):
- Devise environmentally sustainable techniques for preserving collections and serving communities.
In September of 2024 a preservation assessment, an audit of the safety of an institutions collection, was conducted by myself, an external consultant who spent time in the Teatro Stabile Torino archive with Davide Giovanninetti and two other staff members. My report revealed several inconsistencies with best practices, a general lack of policy, as well as many environmental issues. It made several recommendations, many of which are mid to long range goals, however some short range goals are within reach and should be implemented as quickly as possible with the help of financial assistance from funding bodies such as the National Endowment of the Humanities. Based upon the recommendations of said preservation assessment, this NEH grant project focuses on the implementation of critical changes to the environment, policy, and staff culture of Teatro Stabile Torino Archive, in order to better safeguard their holdings. The Study Center archive, which houses a substantial collection, which documents the theater’s 573 plus shows since 1955, faces challenges related to environmental control, storage practices, and the need for foundational preservation policies. This proposal addressed said issues by purchasing environmental monitoring equipment, upgrading storage materials, implementing the use of consultants, monitoring pollutant controls, and training staff on preservation best practices. These activities will protect the archive’s diverse holdings and support continued public access thus ensuring their continued role in the preservation of the theatre’s rich history. Included in the grant appendix is the full Preservation Assessment that was conducted prior to the grant.
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