Potential Donors
Information for Potential Donors of Historic Objects and Materials
Although we are grateful to everyone who chooses to entrust us with a treasured piece of osteopathic history, limitations on space and other resources, as well as responsible collections management, require us to be selective. The decision about whether to accept a particular artifact is based on several factors, such as the item’s origin, condition, match to collecting guidelines, and overlap with artifacts already in the collection. In some cases (especially books), a list will be requested to aid in the decision process.
The Still National Osteopathic Museum collects historic materials that support its education, exhibition, and scholarship functions. The collections policies are guided by the Museum’s mission statement.
Anyone considering making any donation (large or small) should call the Curator first, to be sure the items are appropriate for the collection. Calling beforehand saves the donor the trouble and expense of shipping items that cannot be accepted. It also allows us to give advice on packing and shipping so that your precious objects and photographs arrive safely.
What does the Museum collect?
The artifacts that tell the story of osteopathy come in many different forms, including three-dimensional objects, photographs, manuscripts and documents, and printed material; the Museum collects all of these formats. We are the national museum for osteopathic history and thus collect materials documenting the growth and practice of osteopathic medicine in all parts of the country (and the world). We primarily focus on the early years of osteopathy (through 1950) and accept only limited materials dated after 1974.
What does the Museum NOT collect?
The Museum has an adequate representation of the following types of artifacts and thus no longer accepts them:
- General medical books unless written by a D.O.
- Medical bags
- General medical instruments and supplies
- Medications
- Plaques and trophies
- Kirksville diplomas (Diplomas from other schools are welcome.)
- State licenses, AOA membership certificates, and similar documents
Exceptions may be made when there is something particularly unusual about the item in question.
Frequently asked questions
How does the donation process work?
As noted above, it is very important that you call first to discuss your potential donation. Once your donation is accepted, you will receive a temporary gift agreement form to sign and return to the Museum. We will also ask your wishes regarding any items we cannot use for the collection; options include allowing us to sell, trade, or otherwise dispose of the items in a way that benefits the Museum, or returning them to you (at your expense). Once your donation has been fully processed, you will receive a formal deed of gift agreement to sign and return to the Museum.
Is my donation tax-deductible?
Yes. Depending on the value of your donation, you may have to file special forms with the IRS; consult your tax advisor. (The ATSU Development Department will supply donors with IRS Form 8283 and a copy of the deed of gift for your records once the donation has been accepted.) To avoid potential conflicts of interest, the Museum is unable to provide appraisals of donated items.
If you require a detailed list of your donation, it is your responsibility to make it before sending the items.
Will the object I donate be kept on exhibit?
The Museum cannot display every object, and some artifacts should not be exhibited because of their condition. However, many items that cannot be exhibited are still very valuable for research or education.
May I limit the use of my donation?
The Museum will accept restricted donations only in exceptional cases. A privacy request such as “I’d like to donate my diary, but I don’t want anyone to read it until after my death” is an example of a reasonable restriction. A restriction such as “Only ATSU students and alumni may use my papers” or “The object always has to be on display” would not be acceptable.
A note about framed objects
We recommend that documents and photographs be removed from frames before shipping (unless there is something unusual about the frame). Framing glass frequently breaks, slicing and damaging the enclosed objects. Frames are also bulky and expensive to ship. Once removed from the frames, however, be sure to provide adequate support for the photograph or document, such as sandwiching the item between two pieces of clean corrugated cardboard. (“Shirt cardboard” is not sufficient!) Please call if you have any questions about packing artifacts for shipment