Victorian Collections
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
Victorian Collections is a free, web-based, collection management and publishing system. It is a complete and industry-standard cataloguing tool for cultural organisations of all shapes and sizes. Hundreds of organisations have contributed to its growing database of items, creating a central portal to Victoria’s rich cultural heritage and diverse histories.
The Victorian Collections website celebrates the diversity of collections held in the state of Victoria, Australia.
As well as offering a free collections management system for collecting organisations in Victoria, it is a platform for all to discover more about our state through easy access to collection items and collection-based stories.
The website is backed by ongoing support and training programs delivered by the Australian Museums and Galleries Association Victoria, and the system is developed and is maintained by Museums Victoria’s information technology and collection management system specialists.
It provides:
A collection management system suitable for both first-time and advanced users
Safe, reliable, password-protected access
A secure, long-term preservation system for collection information
Access to the catalogue anytime, anywhere
Ability to attach documents, photos, oral histories and videos to collection records
Option to publish and share selected items online and keep some items private
We are committed to anticipating the needs of our users and our sustained connection with the collecting sector continues to inform the development of the website.
STORIES
Our Stories draw inspiration from the growing pool of shared history and material culture on Victorian Collections. Each story brings together items gathered by different organisations, celebrating the diversity of collections held across Victoria. Every cultural artefact has a story to tell. If you have an idea for a Story drawn from Victorian Collections, please submit a ticket to the Victorian Collections Helpdesk to find out about becoming a guest curator.
GETTING STARTED
If your organisation would like to manage your collections using the Victorian Collections management system, read further to learn about eligibility and how to become a contributor.
For general information and guidance on cataloging collections, download a copy of the Small Museums Cataloguing Manual.
If you have any questions, contact the Victorian Collections team by submitting a ticket to the Victorian Collections Helpdesk.
WORKSHOPS & TRAINING
Victorian Collections offers training workshops both online and/or throughout metropolitan and regional Victoria. These workshops guide attendees through the process of cataloguing with the Victorian Collections system, and introduce the principles of collection management, digitisation, and discoverability and accessibility.
For upcoming workshop dates and bookings, see our Training and Events page.
For more information, contact the Victorian Collections team by submitting a ticket to the Victorian Collections Helpdesk.
SUPPORTERS
The Victorian Collections program is a partnership between the Australian Museums and Galleries Association Victoria and Museums Victoria. Funding for the program is provided by the Victorian Government through Creative Victoria.