In response to the first question, it seems to me that if there is no
documentation to the contrary there appears to be no reason why you
just can give the materials away -- possibly try to find another institution
that might want them or use them as part of an educational collection.

Just my opinion...

Laura Mahoney
Office of Sponsored Projects
Smithsonian Institution

>>> kings Landing <[log in to unmask]> 11/19/96 11:44am >>>
We are currently having a discussion as to what too do wirh certain
types of artifacts. The ones in queston are those that have been
dropped off at the front door with no information on donor - how do
institutions deal with their disposal if you do not want it, where do they
go?
The other question we are trying to resolve is what to do wiith items that
come in as part of a donation - for example we are offered several
ploughs and tools. We accept the ploughs but not the tools.
The donor has been contacted and doees not come to get them or does
not respond. What experience have others had dealing  with this
material, what do we do with it, and there may not be another institution
that it could be given to