Maihaugens collections is for the public. The museum collects artifacts, photographs, books and archives to document and disseminate knowledge about society and how culture has developed from 1500 through the present day. Collections can be used in research, exhibitions and in other contexts.
What does Maihaugen collect?
Maihaugen collect material culture mainly from Gudbrandsdalen and Lillehammer District. When it comes to craftsmanship and handcrafts, the museum has a national responsibility. Maihaugen collect material from the present and past.
How to collect?
Maihaugens acquisition plans tell what the museum should give priority to and what to collect. The museum receives many offers of donations from the public. We are very happy, but we are unfortunately not able to accept all what we are offered. Maihaugen is also active in their own collecting. One case is our project where objects and photographs is collect in connection with recreation of the 1950ties building. Sometimes the museum lend objects from other museums in Norway and from museums abroad to our exhibitions.
How do Maihaugen care of the objects?
When objects are in the collections they are cleaned, photographed and receive a registration number. All information about the objects are registered in the computer program called Primus. The condition of the items will be reviewed and if there is a need for conservation it will be carried out on the conservation workshop at the museum. Objects get a location code before they are placed in the exhibition or in climate-controlled storage facilities. Conservation and proper storage extend the lifetime of objects so that later generations can also enjoy them.