AZ State U is expanding the space for our natural science collections and one issue that has come up is what level of humidity might be best for all the collections. We are currently housed in a preexisting building that was not designed for collections, and we are gaining most of the rest of that building and the interior will be remodeled a little. 

We have plants, mammals, fish in alcohol, insects, and of course, shells. All will be in a building with only one level of humidity. National  Parks Services recommends keeping humidity around 40-60% for most collections, and adds that shells, bones and teeth could be more susceptible to damage at much lower humidity. Some are asking for lower humidity of around 16% for insects. 

I should add that this expansion has been granted because of the donation of a huge insect collection (mainly weevils and leaf hoppers),and the space is primarily to house that collection, and I expect first regard will be for that. However, the (dry) mollusk collection will use part of the space with the insects. I don't believe a closing doorway to isolate the shells will be part of the plans for the expansion.

Do any of you have experience with housing such collections and could you offer any suggestions regarding an appropriate level of humidity?

Thanks,
Dale Snyder

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