Illinois State University Milner Library

The Milner Library at Illinois State University will preserve its collection of approximately1,200 artifacts, consisting primarily of circus costuming, accessories, and props dating from the 1880s to the early 2000s. After the recent completion of an inventory of the collection, staff and student workers will consult with a textile conservator to complete a conservation assessment of the collection. The assessment will result in recommendations for future collections storage, handling, and treatment. Additionally, a graduate student will work with a researcher to identify provenance and histories of costumes held in the collection. The project will result in increased accessibility to the collection for staff and researchers both in-person and online through the library’s digital collections.