Acquisition policy

Definition

An acquisition policy is a formal set of guidelines and procedures that govern how a museum or cultural institution acquires new items for its collection. This policy outlines the criteria for selecting objects, the ethical considerations involved, and the methods for obtaining them, whether through purchase, donation, or loan. It is essential for ensuring responsible collection growth and maintaining the integrity and focus of the institution's holdings.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Acquisition policies help museums avoid legal issues by ensuring that items are obtained ethically and legally.
2. These policies often include a framework for evaluating the significance and relevance of potential acquisitions to the museum's mission.
3. Acquisition policies can also address issues of provenance to ensure that the objects have a clear and legal history.
4. Many museums involve stakeholders, including community members and experts, in the development and revision of their acquisition policies to ensure inclusivity.
5. Acquisition policies are not static; they evolve over time to reflect changing societal values and the museum's goals.

Review Questions

• How does an acquisition policy influence the types of collections that a museum develops?
  • An acquisition policy plays a significant role in shaping a museum's collections by establishing clear criteria for what items can be added. This includes defining the scope of the collection, emphasizing certain themes or subjects, and setting ethical standards. As a result, the policy helps ensure that new acquisitions align with the institution's mission and values, fostering a coherent narrative within the collection.
• Discuss how acquisition policies can promote ethical practices in museums when acquiring new objects.
  • Acquisition policies promote ethical practices by laying out guidelines that require transparency and accountability in how museums obtain items. They typically include provisions on provenance research to verify ownership history and discourage acquiring objects that may have been obtained through illegal means. By adhering to these ethical standards, museums build trust with their communities and ensure they respect cultural sensitivities surrounding object ownership.
• Evaluate the impact of a well-defined acquisition policy on a museum's reputation and community relations.
  • A well-defined acquisition policy can significantly enhance a museum's reputation by demonstrating its commitment to ethical practices and responsible stewardship of cultural heritage. This transparency fosters trust among stakeholders, including donors, visitors, and community members. Additionally, it allows museums to engage meaningfully with diverse communities, addressing concerns about representation and inclusion. By prioritizing ethical acquisitions, museums can strengthen their ties with the public while also enhancing their credibility in the broader cultural landscape.

Related terms

Deaccessioning: The process of permanently removing an item from a museum's collection, which can involve sale, transfer, or destruction.

Provenance: The history of ownership of an object, which is crucial in establishing authenticity and legal ownership.

Ethics in collecting: The moral principles that guide museums in acquiring objects, including issues related to cultural sensitivity and repatriation.