Deaccessioning procedures

Definition

Deaccessioning procedures refer to the formal processes by which a museum or cultural institution removes an item from its collection. This practice is often necessary for reasons like changing collection strategies, the item's condition, or legal/ethical issues, and it raises significant ethical considerations that impact the institution's integrity and public trust.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Deaccessioning must follow established policies to ensure transparency and accountability, often involving board approval.
2. Museums may deaccession items to improve their collections by removing those that do not fit their mission or exhibit standards.
3. The proceeds from deaccessioning sales are typically restricted for use in acquiring new works or for direct care of remaining collections, as per ethical guidelines.
4. Ethical considerations in deaccessioning include maintaining public trust, potential conflicts of interest, and the cultural significance of items.
5. Some institutions face backlash from the public or stakeholders when they deaccession items perceived as significant or historically valuable.

Review Questions

• How do deaccessioning procedures align with ethical considerations in museum operations?
  • Deaccessioning procedures must align with ethical considerations by ensuring transparency, accountability, and respect for cultural significance. Museums are expected to develop clear policies that outline the reasons for deaccessioning items and how the process will be conducted. This alignment helps maintain public trust and ensures that the institution acts responsibly in managing its collection.
• Discuss the implications of improper deaccessioning practices for museums and their relationships with the community.
  • Improper deaccessioning practices can severely damage a museum's reputation and erode community trust. When institutions fail to adhere to established guidelines or appear to prioritize financial gain over ethical responsibilities, it can lead to public outcry and loss of support. The community may feel that their cultural heritage is not being respected, which can hinder future collaboration and engagement efforts.
• Evaluate the role of ethical guidelines in shaping deaccessioning practices within museums and their long-term impact on collection integrity.
  • Ethical guidelines play a crucial role in shaping deaccessioning practices by providing a framework that museums must follow to ensure responsible decision-making. These guidelines help institutions navigate complex issues surrounding ownership, provenance, and cultural sensitivity. By adhering to these principles, museums can protect their long-term integrity and uphold their commitment to preserving cultural heritage, ultimately fostering trust with stakeholders and the public.

Related terms

Accessioning: The process of formally adding an item to a museum's collection, establishing its legal ownership and significance.

Cultural Property: Items of significant cultural, historical, or artistic value that are preserved by institutions and can include artworks, artifacts, and documents.

Ethical Guidelines: Set principles developed by professional organizations that govern the conduct of museums and their operations, including how to handle deaccessioning.