Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How does the Collections Management Committee determine what is collected?
All donations are presented before the Collections Management Committee to determine whether the Museum will accept them into the collection. The Committee, with recommendations from staff, looks at three main areas to make their determination: the objects history, its condition and relevance to our mission statement. Other factors such as size, special restrictions and greater significance to another institution, may also be considered.
How can I make a donation to the Dartmouth Heritage Museum?
All donations need to be brought to the Museum for review by the Collections Management Committee before they are accepted. We ask that larger items be photographed and the photos be brought in due to space restrictions. The Committee meets approximately once every two months to review all pending donations. When you bring in your object(s) for donation you will be asked to fill out a Provisional Custody Agreement in order for the Museum to hold onto your donation while waiting for their review. Your objects will receive the same care as the rest of the Museum’s collection while waiting for review. Please call the curator in advance of any donation.
What happens to my donation if it is accepted?
If the Collections Management Committee accepts your donation into the collection, then you will receive a letter in the mail with a Deed of Gift form that you will need to fill out and return in the postage paid envelope to the Museum. When the Museum has received the completed donor form, your objects will be processed and added to our collection for future generations to enjoy and learn from.
What happens if my donation is not accepted?
If the Committee does not accept your donation into the collection, then you will receive a letter in the mail that thanks you for your donation and asks that you to make arrangements to pick up your objects.
What happens if I don’t wish to fill out a Provisional Custody Agreement or Deed of Gift form?
If you do not fill out a temporary receipt when you leave your object at the Museum they will be disposed of immediately. If you do not fill out and return the donor form within 30 days of acceptance, then the objects are still legally yours and cannot be entered into the Museum’s collection. You will be then notified to pick them up within 30 days or they will be disposed of.
Can I bring in my object(s) to be appraised?
No, the Museum does not have the ability to appraise objects. You would have to go to a professional appraiser.
What happens if I decide that I would like my object(s) back in a few years?
As soon as you sign them over to the Museum they become the legal property of Halifax Regional Municipality and they are no longer yours. Please think carefully and consult your family members before making any donations.
What if I have donated something to the museum in the past and want to know what happened to it?
Please fill out the Acquisition Status form and submit it to the Curator. Try to be as detailed as you can.
If I have any more questions who do I contact?
For any questions about the collection, donations, or researching please contact the curator at:
Crystal Martin
Phone: 902-464-2004 or 902-464-2300
Fax: 902-464-8210
martinc@halifax.ca