I read the abandoned property information from Indiana with some interest.
We have another type of abandoned object problem which I would like to
throw out to the list for comment.

Our regional conservation center has several objects in our care which
received conservation treatment.  We have had no response from the owner
for nearly three years.

The answering machine takes messages at the number of record.  Mail,
including registered mail, seems to be delivered correctly.  Still, the
owner has never contacted us.

There is an outstanding balance due for our services, but at this point
it seems unlikely that it will ever be paid.  We have no written policy
regarding abandoned items, so it seems we cannot take possession of
these objects, either.

Does any institution out there have an abandoned objects policy?  I am
also looking for suggestions on formulating one - how long must the piece
be left before it is considered abandoned, what constitutes sufficient
notice to the original owner, etc.?

Thank you for your help!

        Lorinda Gayle    [log in to unmask]