Handling objects in museums and galleries

I am currently researching the topic of handling objects in museums
and galleries for my MA Preventive Conservation dissertation.  My
proposed research questions are:

How does physical engagement with objects enhance the visitor's
experience of a collection?

How might museums and galleries best support tactile experiences for
visitors while continuing to fulfil their preservation duties?

To help me develop my research plan further I would greatly
appreciate responses to the following questions:

Do you know of any museums/galleries that provide engaging and
meaningful tactile experiences?

Do you know of any museums/galleries that have developed new
approaches or initiatives in relation to providing tactile
experiences for visitors?

Do you know of any museums/galleries that educate visitors on
handling techniques?

Have you experienced handling collections or touch sessions at a
museum/gallery? Did you find the experience valuable?


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                  Conservation DistList Instance 26:46
                  Distributed: Sunday, April 21, 2013
                       Message Id: cdl-26-46-030
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