Acquisition Policy for the Houston Computer Museum
Statement of Purpose
The Houston Computer Museum a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization was created to collect, restore, preserve, display, and research vintage computers and related items from the past, and showcase these items from the past, present, and future.
The purpose of the museum is to increase the knowledge and understanding of the history, cultural relationship, and the future of computer technology.
The Houston Computer Museum collections which are open to the public are to provide a basis for its exhibition and educational programs, for research and study, for special lectures and symposia and for the cultural and educational enrichment of the Houston community and visitors to the city.
Criteria
Only those categories of material which meet the following conditions and governing rules of acquisitions will be accessioned into the museum's various collections:
The item must have intrinsic value.
The item(s) must be consistent with and relevant to the stated purpose, scope, and activities of the museum.
The item(s) should be of museum quality (exceptions will be made for certain items). Primary consideration will be given to the museum's ability to provide proper care and storage for any artifact or works of art. No item(s) should be considered for acquisition if its physical condition exceeds the museum's financial ability to provide for its care and preservation.
The museum must be able to provide proper storage for any acquisition under consideration.
The item(s) must have a verifiable, when needed, record of authenticity and provenance. The provenance of acquired items shall be a matter of public record.
The items must have a free and clear title.
The museum acknowledges its responsibility to ascertain that items offered, whether by purchase, exchange, gift, or bequest, are not stolen, wrongfully converted, or acquired under false pretences. All such items will be declined.
If the museum should discover that it has inadvertently acquired an item that is proven to have been obtained in violation of the above statement, the museum shall seek to return the item(s) to its legal owner or shall seek to determine, through outside recognized and competent authorities, the proper means of disposition.
If possible, a 30 day examination period shall be required for any acquisition under consideration for purchase for a large sum of money. If necessary, a second appraisal of the item(s) monetary and aesthetic worth should be secured from a recognized and unbiased authority by the museum at its expense.
The donor is responsible for appraisals of value. Under no circumstance shall the museum provide an appraisal of a donation. It may offer only suggestions concerning outside appraisal services.
All acquisitions are to be outright and unconditional.
All donations to the museum's collections are irrevocable upon the formal and physical transfer to the museum.
All legal instruments of conveyance and warranty of title, signed by the donor/seller/agent setting forth an adequate description of the items involved and the precise conditions of the transfer shall accompany all acquisitions.
All acquisitions by gift or bequest to the museum must remain in the possession of the museum for as long as they retain their physical integrity and authenticity, and as long as they remain useful for the purposes of the museum.
The integrity, good name, and well being of the Houston Computer Museum shall inform all decisions made by the museum curator regarding the acquisition and disposal of museum objects.
Since federal law prevents the museum from providing dollar values for items donated, we will not quote prices to you. We can provide the names of individuals who perform this service ( they charge fees) or you can contact your regional branch of the Appraisers Association of America or the American Society of Appraisers directly. Also there are books available that describe market prices for such items.
Donations are fully tax deductible within IRS guidelines.
The Houston Computer Museum is a fully independent, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization for public benefit. Your donation is a tax-deductible contribution.
Federal ID: #43-1950958