In a message dated 12/20/2002 1:19:48 PM Eastern Standard Time, [log in to unmask] writes:

> The basic rate for most museums is $100 per object. Plus
> any additional fees
> for conservation, packing, and crating.


I'm not sure this is a fair statement.  Like salaries and other financial figures, charges are based on region, size of institution, operational budget and burden to staff's workload.

We feel that outreach through object loans is part of our mission.  Our Collection Manager's job description calls for the processing of outgoing and incoming loans so we don't feel that double billing (charging someone to pay for what is already in her job description) is necessary.  Other organizations, however, don't have the revenue to support this practice, so they actually have to plan to earn "x" dollars through loans.  The rate is (or should be) more dependent on need rather than trends at other facilities.

I think that while charging fees is becoming more common, it is actually reducing the accessibility of some collections.  Because of high fees, it is much more difficult for smaller institutions to borrow from the larger state and regional facilities.

Betsy Martinson
Education and Events Coordinator
Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave
303-526-0744

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