Fundamentals

Lending objects is a fundamental aspect of collections management. For organizations that do not have their collections on display, loans can be a way of displaying them to the public for both enjoyment and scholarly interest. For those without a permanent collection, borrowing and exhibiting objects can be the main focus of their operation. Private collectors are often asked to lend works of art to public exhibitions and most museums and galleries both lend and borrow frequently as part of everyday operations.

Sending a valuable object to another destination, however, must be carefully considered, with the safety of the object being of greatest importance. The reasons for and conditions of the loan should be clear and agreed in advance by both lender and borrower, preferably in a written contract. Risks should be considered, packing and transport must be safe and secure, and handling and installation should follow best‑practice guidelines.

Reasons to lend include the following:

Some objects should not be moved, either for conservation reasons or due to the fact that they are particularly associated with a specific site or museum. Some loans are in fact undertaken for the wrong reasons. Reasons not to lend include: