SMCC > How to deposit objects > Why has the museum said they do not want my object/collection?

Why has the museum said they do not want my object/collection?

Museums have many good reasons for saying ‘no’. The item may not fit within its collecting policy, the cost of caring for your object may mean that the museum would not be able to care for those already in its collection. The cost of conservation and storage, particularly the storage of large or fragile items, may mean that while your gift is free, it still costs too much.

Other reasons for saying ‘no’ include the law, e.g. the museum may not have a licence for firearms, or logistics. The museum staff may be preparing for a reopening, and have decided not to collect any new items for a while.

Some museums, while not wanting an object for their collections may want your object for its ‘education’ or ‘handling’ collection. These objects may be picked up and felt by children and visitors. Inevitably damage and wear means that the object will eventually be ‘loved to death’, and discarded.

Why does the museum want the best objects out of my collection and reject the rest?

Museums only have limited resources, and much as they might like your collection of 3,000, they only have resources to look after a few. Perhaps the rest are duplicates of items which the museum has already or they have conservation needs which the museum cannot meet.

So now what do I do when the museum says they don’t want it?

The museum may be able to advise you of another museum that might be interested in your object.

Selling your objects through an antiques fair or at auction might seem far from what you want – but it does mean that they will have a new owner, who really wants them!