Objects are at the heart of science museums, but they very rarely speak for themselves. They may be historically unique or significant to those that understand them, but to others they can seem banal and disconnected from any meaning. These objects may not look particularly appetising, but visitors are hungry for knowledge. What tools and techniques can we use to help visitors delve into the stories, science and history underpinning these objects? In this interactive session, speakers will describe the challenges of interpreting a diverse range of objects from natural history specimens, to musical instruments and early personal computers. The session will then guide participants through a series of steps for recognising and overcoming the challenges of their own collections.