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----- Original Message -----
From: "George W. Garner" <[log in to unmask]>
Date: Monday, June 30, 2003 12:14 pm
Subject: Selling links to for-profit sites on museum webpage

> We are in the process of developing a new, interactive,
> educational website
> for our new institution. In absence of a facility, the website
> will be a
> major focus of our public educational programming for the next few
> years. It
> will contain an interactive collection database, online exhibits,
> children'ssection, and other programming.
>
> I intended to create a 'Links' section where visitors could find more
> off-site information. It's logical to offer links to (for-profit)
> stores and
> manufacturers who sell products and services related to our
> mission. We're a
> sports museum, so equipment dealers and manufacturers are a good
> fit and
> make sense to link.
>
> I wonder if it would be wise to sell, instead of give these links.
> Let me be
> sure I'm clear. I have no intention to offer banner ads, or huge
> advertisements. Rather, simply list the name of the company, a website
> (maybe phone number), and a brief description (one sentence) about
> what they
> offer. No flowery, sales terms (e.g. "The lowest prices in the
> northeast!");instead, simple, clear terms (e.g. "Skate
> manufacturer based in Hometown,
> New York"). Visitors would know these were paid links, and we do
> not endorse
> any product or service.
>
> So far, I've seen nothing in the IRS website and 501c3 codes to
> imply this
> is a bad thing; however, I know of no other museum website that
> does this.
> This could be UBIT, but again, the legalese is a bit difficult for
> me to
> parse. I'm interested in opinions, particularly from those who
> have thought
> about something similar. Why did you (not) do it?
>
> Thanks in advance,
> George Garner
>
>
> The National Speedskating Museum & Hall of Fame
> P.O. Box 3120, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
> George Garner, Director
> [log in to unmask]
>
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