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Gift Information for Donors
The Museum relies on the generosity and support of the
public to help us collect, preserve, and share the cultural
heritage of our area. We hope the following information will
help folks better understand the nature of the Museum’s
collections and the conditions under which they are given
and used.
What We Collect
The Museum collects objects that document the rich and
unique history of Rogers and the surrounding area. While
emphasis is placed on those items specific to Benton
County’s history, the Museum occasionally collects objects
from outside the area, especially if they enhance already
existing collections or are representative of objects
generally available in the area.
The Museum is committed to preserving the history of the
community for future generations. To that end special care
is given to collections in the areas of handling,
exhibition, and storage. Acid-free storage materials, low
light levels, and good housekeeping are just a few of the
ways the Museum ensures a long life to the objects entrusted
to its care.
When an object is donated to the Museum it is accessioned
(formally added) into one of five collections, depending
upon the object’s nature and condition, how it will be used,
and who may use it. The donor signs a Deed of Gift,
officially declaring that he or she is the legal owner of
the object and gives it “irrevocably and unconditionally” to
the Museum.
Permanent Collection - Objects placed in the Permanent
Collection consist of historic photographs, documents,
textiles, tools, memorabilia, books, etc. These objects are
given the greatest care and form the core of the Museum’s
collection. The Permanent Collection is used for exhibition
and research purposes. It may be used by Museum staff or
loaned to qualified museums.
Teaching Collection - Objects placed in the Teaching
Collection consist of modern replicas, objects without
historical importance, and objects deaccessioned (formally
removed) from the Permanent Collection. These objects are
used in supervised hands-on activities for children and
adults, as well as in the “Attic” and “First Street”
exhibits. The Teaching Collection receives adequate care,
but, because of its purpose, may experience wear and tear.
The Teaching Collection may be used by Museum staff or its
representatives.
Image Collection - Objects placed in the Image
Collection consist of photos of Museum events, copies of
objects in the Permanent Collection, reproduction photos,
and copies of original photos loaned to the Museum. The
Image Collection is used for research, publications,
educational programs, and exhibitions, and to fulfill
requests from the public. It may be used by Museum staff and
the public.
Research Collection - Objects placed in the Research
Collection consist of books, magazine articles, newspaper
clippings, etc. The Research Collection may be used for
exhibition, program, and collections research by Museum
staff. It may be used by the public.
Museum Archives - Objects placed in the Museum
Archives consist of programs, posters, records, memorabilia,
etc., concerning the Museum. The Museum Archives is a
repository of the Museum’s history. It may be used for
exhibits and research by Museum staff.
Collections Policies
Restrictions such as those requiring permanent display,
specific labeling, or unconditional access may not be placed
on any object donated to the Museum.
The Museum does not continuously exhibit Permanent
Collection objects. Objects are taken off exhibit from time
to time in order to protect them and provide new
interpretive exhibits to the public. The exceptions to this
policy are for the majority of objects on display in the
historic 1895 Hawkins House and on “First Street,” the
Museum’s two long-term exhibits.
The Museum maintains the right to deaccession any object
from any collection in accordance with its Collections
Management Policy. Some of the criteria for deaccessioning
include loss of historical authenticity, physical integrity,
or relevance to the Museum’s mission and goals. The decision
to deaccession will be cautious, deliberate, and scrupulous.
To that end, the Museum is very careful as to what it adds
to its collections.
The Museum subscribes to the current “Code of Ethics”
adopted by the American Association of Museums. The Code
addresses such collections issues as rightful ownership,
documentation, care and safety, accountability,
accessibility, and responsible disposal.
Donors wishing to claim an income-tax deduction may need to
have the gift appraised. Museum staff cannot offer
appraisals. Since tax laws are subject to change, donors
should consult the IRS or a knowledgeable tax expert about
current requirements. Click here
for more information about appraisals and tax deductions.
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