I am the curator of collections in a museum that has been in existence since
1978. It is the 501(c) 3 offshoot of a for-profit organization that retains
very close ties, political and otherwise (a 100 year old organization run by
volunteers; governance changes every three years, although the same people
seem to circulate through the system). In fact, the museum houses both the
museum, museum offices and the for-profit organization's offices. Although the
operations are physically separated within the building, both entities have
ownership of different portions. Some exhibits and storage are located in the
for-profit organization's portion.

Since 1978, archival objects and some three-dimensional objects have been
given to the museum without the legal transfer of ownership (Donor Form) being
generated. Recently, I attempted to have a blanket Donor Form signed by the
current for-profit organization's board. The board refused to sign the Donor
Form although they would have retained copyright and trademark rights on all
items.

It seems to be a control issue. One of their concerns is that the museum would
toss things out! Of course, deaccessioning procedures were explained to them,
but explaining museum strategy is like talking to the wall.  They couldn't
care less about proper museum procedures. They have been doing things their
way for 100 years! Their response was "well, we'll just put the items on loan
to the museum!" (@ 5000 objects, 1/3 of the collection). Their point of view
is that they give the museum a lot of money (they don't give nearly as much as
they think) so the museum should be willing to "store" the items.

The director and I are very concerned about this situation, especially since
we will be going through accreditation process in two years.

Any opinions or suggestions on this problem will be greatly appreciated.