PEM2 Dataloggers for Preservation Monitoring
To monitor, assess, and make necessary changes to environmental controls at the museum sites.
$4,500,000 the first year and $6,500,000 the second year are for history programs and projects operated or conducted by or through local, county, regional, or other historical or cultural organizations or for activities to preserve significant historic and cultural resources. Funds are to be distributed through a competitive grant process. The Minnesota Historical Society must administer these funds using established grant mechanisms, with assistance from the advisory committee created under Laws 2009, chapter 172, article 4, section 2, subdivision 4, paragraph (b), item (ii).
Available upon request. grants@mnhs.org
In the short term, we have created a strong relationship between museum and facilities staff. The Pem2 Dataloggers have allowed us to put data first and not rely on just feeling changes in the temperature and humidity. We have been able to monitor physically in real time allowing us to mitigate risk to the collection by being proactive when changing settings or scheduling repairs.
As we approach a year of data, staff will be able to precisely report on decay rates, %EMC, and mold/mildew risks. These numbers will help inform a long term environmental plan and support the Society's requests for funding to either upgrade the HVAC system or find off-site storage.
In the long term, the pem2 dataloggers will allow the Society to fulfill its promise of collecting, preserving, and interpreting the past of St. Louis County.
Available upon request, grants@mnhs.org