The visit marked a critical moment in assessing the Museum’s progress and identifying next steps for safeguarding a growing and materially diverse collection.

Over the course of the project, staff and volunteers completed a major repackaging initiative using archival-grade boxes, sleeves, and supports, alongside the installation of new conservation-standard shelving in our operational space. This work was guided by best practice in line with BS EN 17820:2023, the newly adopted specification for managing cultural heritage collections.

Documentation processes have also advanced significantly, with a new database system now in development and greater clarity around the status of handling, accessioned, and learning materials.

DOWNLOAD FULL REPORT

Despite progress, the current South London space remains unsuitable for long-term storage, particularly for vulnerable materials like acetate negatives, textiles, and printed ephemera.
In response, plans are underway to relocate the archive to a purpose-built storage space in our upcoming St Pancras/Camden site in late 2025.