Donate an Object

Our museums and collections have been built upon the passion and enthusiasm of the numerous private collectors who have chosen to preserve their collections for future generations by donating them to us.   

Bequests and donations from private individuals continue to play a key role in the development of our collections. Making a gift to a university collection means that you can be sure your collection will be actively used, either through supporting our teaching and research programmes or in the public displays in our galleries and exhibitions.     

Please contact Dr Craig Barclay, Head of Museums, Galleries and Exhibitions, for a confidential discussion.   

Please be aware that: 

• We cannot give valuations 
• We do not usually accept items on long term loan 
• We cannot accept items with specific conditions attached
• Whilst we cannot guarantee that any item will go onto display, we regard teaching and research as equally valuable. 

We are not able to accept everything that is offered to us and can only accept objects that meet the criteria of our Collections Development Policy. Before accepting a gift, we must also ensure that we have the resources to support its long-term conservation and storage. If for any reason we cannot accommodate your gift, we may be able to suggest an alternative institution that can. 

You may find it useful to read our Collections Development Policy and 'Everybody is a winner': a guide to giving (and selling) art and cultural artefacts to UK museums and galleries. This useful guide, created by the Art Fund and Arts Council England, offers a wealth of advice and case studies.