Collections Stewardship Resources

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Old Loans and Objects Found in Collections

Old Loan Legislation by State

American Alliance of Museums Registrars Committee

The AAM Registrars Committee shares a list of various states’ legislation regarding how to handle objects found in collections.

Found in Collections: Reconciling Undocumented Objects in Historical Museums

Melinda Simms

Melinda Simms shares Found in Collections: Reconciling Undocumented Objects in Historical Museums. The reference guide was developed in partial fulfillment of her master’s degree in museum studies. The guide discusses the process of reconciliation, numbering, deaccession and disposal, and ways to prevent future problems. It also includes a glossary, a decision map to aid in the reconciliation process, and citations for state laws concerning old loans and undocumented property. The 23-page PDF can be accessed from this introductory page.

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