Unpacking the Collection: Stories Behind 500,000 Artefacts
Behind the doors of The Novium sits a collection shaped by sea, land and everyday life. Half a million artefacts have arrived from across West Sussex and beyond, each requiring careful handling, recording and storage.
Cataloguing the story
Every item is measured, photographed and entered into the collections system before it joins the shelves. This record helps curators understand provenance, monitor condition and decide how an object can be displayed or studied. Even fragments of flint, shell, textile or tile become part of a wider local narrative.
Storing with care
- Assess each artefact for pests, dirt or damage.
- Choose acid-free boxes, tissue and supports.
- Label with unique numbers and locations.
- Track climate conditions in storage areas.
- Review items when loan requests or displays arise.
“Preservation keeps every detail legible for the next visitor.”
From storage to display
Conservators repair fragile materials where appropriate, using minimal intervention. Digitisation expands access, allowing researchers and families to explore objects without constant handling. The result is a collection that remains alive, useful and accessible.
| Collection type | How it is protected | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Seaside souvenirs | Stable boxes, controlled light and temperature | Trace Bognor Regis tourism and social change |
| Archaeological finds | Recorded context, sealed packaging | Preserve evidence of ancient settlement and trade |
| Photographs and maps | Flat storage, limited handling | Keep streets, harbours and families visible |