Where do museum collections come from?
Since opening in 1976, Please Touch Museum began collecting objects for exhibits and programs. Many of these items were donated by staff, visitors and friends of the Museum. Others were purchased by staff at stores, auctions, flea markets and garage sales. In 1983, the museum re-energized the collection to focus on Contemporary Toys and Historic Childlife—including collecting items important to children in the Delaware Valley. This began the basis for the Childhood Treasures “collection” of the television set and archives of Captain Noah and His Magical Ark, the monorail from Wanamaker’s Department Store, the Woodside Park Dentzel Carousel and more.
Please Touch Museum works with a variety of toy manufacturers and vendors to collect contemporary toys. Museum staff continues to purchase some items from auctions and sales, but the majority of objects come from donations by individuals. The Curator works with donors to document the history of the objects and prevent duplication of objects. A Board of Directors Collection Committee reviews major acquisitions to ensure they fit within the scope of collection, the Museum’s mission, as well as ensure that they can be given the proper care for posterity. Objects, once in the collection, are researched, cataloged, photographed, numbered, stored and made ready for use by the Museum—and preserved for future generations of visitors to Please Touch Museum!
Why don't we exhibit everything?
With over 25,000 objects and archives, the collection is too large to be exhibited all at one time. The Museum rotates collections to show the greatest number of objects to the public, and to preserve fragile items that can be damaged by long-term exhibition. Some items may go out on loan to other museums, or be utilized by researchers and historians when not on display. Some objects are important to preserve for research, but are too fragile for exhibition.
How are museum collections stored?
Please Touch Museum maintains special collections storage and workspace area with supplies, equipment, research and reference material and more to take care of all the Collections. When necessary, specialized consultants review specific objects and collections categories for conservation.