For the Resource Sharing Project of the Texas Association of Museums, I
am drafting an essay on the problems which cause and which result from
orphaned and endangered collections--i.e., those collections which are
administratively abandoned as a result of low visibility, shifting
priorities, loss of space or staff, or any other related factors.
Comments, suggestions for bibliographic references, and questions are
welcome. Anecdotal accounts are not necessary (though always interesting)
unless they concern Texas institutions, in which case the committee would
like to know more so that they can start thinking of ways to help through
resource sharing. No specific instances will be used without the
institution's consent. Copies of the final essay will be provided on request.
 
The TAM Resource Sharing Project is a high-priority commitment by the TAM
to provide assistance to museums by pairing museums with needs to museums
with available resources to answer those needs. For further information
on this, please contact the Texas Association of Museums. Thank you for
your assistance.
 
Sally Shelton, Unreconstructed Texan
Collections Conservation Specialist
San Diego Natural History Museum