Hi Paul, Lori et al.:

Lori Allen wrote:
> Simply put, it is unethical for a museum employee to
collect
> personally what he or she is involved in collecting for
the
> museum.  So you must either give up your hobby, or keep
> working outside the field.

Simply put, this is untrue.  Contact the AAM for a copy of
their small, but handy publication entitled "Museum Ethics."
(My copy is 3rd printing, dated 1981).  Also check the
Museum's employee handbook and/or ask the human resources
department for the rules.

Some museums require a non-compete clause be signed.  This
is a term of employment and cannot be challenged if
presented before or on date of hire.  However . . .

My understand about this subject has always been that a
museum employee may collect within the same field as their
museum's (read: employer's) collection IF they first allow a
specified period during which the museum may purchase the
item at the same price offered the employee.  If the museum
is not interested or able to purchase at that price, the
employee is within his/her rights to purchase the item.
(I've not had a problem . . . not that I can afford to buy
what I want to buy!  LOL!)

Best wishes, sincerely,

Jay Heuman, Visitor & Volunteer Services Coordinator
Joslyn Art Museum, 2200 Dodge Street, Omaha, NE, 68102
342-3300 (telephone)     342-2376 (fax)       www.joslyn.org

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