The Detroit Institute of Arts had, at one time, lent to state, county and city offices. Our policy now is to lend only to the governor and the Mayor of the city. We found that change in office holders was the prime time to gently pry away our paintings and sculpture so that they could be brought home for the public. It took a great deal of staff time to monitor all the paintings out on loan, visiting them once per year, renewing all the paper work each year, etc. Although there was a signed agreement with each borrower that stated (among other things) that the object was not to be moved except by DIA staff, we found paintings stacked on top of filing cabinets, stacked next to radiators, and other horror stories. To pacatelacate those who were used to having art on their walls, we now offer nicely framed reproductions of works from the collection - at no cost. Some have taken us up on this, others have not. With respect to the Mayor and the Governor, we still check the objects annually and rotate as the curator sees fit. Hope this helps, Suzanne Quigley Head Registrar DIA [log in to unmask]