<When deaccessioning, common
sense suggests that we be as discreet as possible -- i.e., that we avoid
giving our "publics" any impression that we consider these objects as
commercial items to be sold in the general marketplace>

Of course, a museum does not want to give the impression that objects in its
collection can be sold randomly and at will.  However, if a museum decides
to deaccession an object from its collection, in my opinion, it should be as
upfront and open as possible with the public about its plans in order to
avoid any impression of impropriety. Deaccessioning is an accepted practice
in museums, not a dirty little secret.  It's up to the museum to educate its
public about the importance and benefits of deaccessioning.

Jerz
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