Collections Policy

Our collections are the heart of the Museum of Madagascar, showcasing the island’s unparalleled biodiversity, vibrant cultures, and fascinating history. Our collections policies ensure the ethical acquisition, preservation, and display of artifacts and specimens, upholding the highest standards of stewardship. Through these policies, we aim to protect Madagascar’s heritage, foster collaborative research, and make our collections accessible to scholars, educators, and the public. Explore how we honor the past while building a future of shared knowledge and discovery.

Collections Policies

1. Collection Development

1.1. Acquisition Methods The Museum of Madagascar will acquire items for its collection through the following methods:

Donations: The museum actively seeks donations of artifacts, specimens, and artworks that align with its mission.
Purchases: The museum may purchase items that enhance its collections and serve its educational goals.
Partnerships with Madagascar: The museum will seek to form partnerships with Madagascar museums and institutions in order to procure specimens or artifacts on loan

1.2. Donation Policy

The museum welcomes unrestricted donations, meaning donors do not impose limitations on the use, display, or deaccessioning of items.
Donors will be provided with a written acknowledgment of their contributions.
Donors are encouraged to provide provenance and any relevant documentation with donated items.

1.3. Loan Policy

The museum will not accept long-term loans exceeding three years.
All loans must have a clear, documented timeframe and conditions outlined in a formal agreement.
The museum will retain the right to deaccession loaned items if necessary, with prior consultation with the lender.

2. Collection Management

2.1. Collection Space: The museum’s collection will be housed in secure, climate-controlled facilities that protect the integrity of artifacts and specimens. Inventory management will be conducted regularly to ensure accurate records and care for all items.

3. Deaccessioning Policy

3.1. Rationale for Deaccessioning: The museum may deaccession items for reasons including, but not limited to:

Duplication of items
Items that do not fit the museum’s mission
Items that are damaged beyond repair or pose a conservation issue

3.2. Deaccessioning Process

All proposed deaccessioning will be reviewed by the collections committee (made up of the Collections director, three curators, and an appointed board member),which will provide recommendations to the museum’s board for approval.
Deaccessioned items may be handled in the following ways:
- Transfer to Other Institutions: Items may be given to other accredited museums or educational institutions.
- Donation for Educational Purposes: Items may be donated to schools or community organizations for educational use.
- Sale: Items may be sold, with proceeds earmarked for the acquisition of new items for the collection or for conservation efforts.
- Destruction: In cases where no other institution wants the item, and it is in considerably bad shape then it may be destroyed. It will be destroyed via deconstruction, crushing, or burning depending on the item.

4. Ethical Considerations

The Museum of Madagascar is committed to ethical practices in all aspects of its collections management. We will adhere to legal standards regarding the acquisition and deaccessioning of items and promote respect for the cultural and ecological significance of Madagascar.

5. Review and Amendments

This policy will be reviewed annually and amended as necessary to reflect best practices in museum collections management.