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