Thirteenth International Conference on The Inclusive Museum

Abstract

This study seeks to answer one fundamental question: How affordable is it for individuals to donate items to galleries, libraries, archives, and museums (GLAM)? In order to answer this question, this ongoing study, which started in 2017, buys historical items from thrift shops and online auction sites with the sole purpose of donating them. After donating approximately 50 items to 25 different GLAM in the United States, this study has found that not only is it possible for the average individual to donate items, but the costs are significantly less than one would expect. The average cost per donated item was $11.60, which includes donations to institutions such as The National Civil War Museum, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, and Historical Society of Pennsylvania. Finally, this study provides a brief overview of how one can strategically donate to maximize their item acceptance rate, as well as what institutions could do to make donating easier for individuals.