Collections Management/Development Policies come in various formats and sizes, depending on the size of the institution. This module presents a basic outline of typical elements found in collections management policies across the country. As you complete your policy you should also focus on ways to make your policy a "living document" for your institution. By becoming a living document, your policy will take its place as one of the guiding documents of your institution. 

Webinars

• Florida Connecting to Collections 2016: Putting Your Document Together

Note:  When viewing the webinars a new browser page will open.  

Activity
Practical Exercise
Utilizing the Policy Writing Progress Report, as a group, analyze the progress your institution has made in regards to completing or updating your report. Use this as an opportunity to discuss goals for completion.

Policy Writing Progress Report.pdf

• What sections need to be completed?
• Who is responsible for finishing these sections?
• How can you assist with completing the sections as a team?
• Do you have goals and deadlines set to complete the policy?
• Are there sections you are struggling to complete?
• Do you need the assistance of the board or director to complete the policy?

Discussion Questions
As a group discuss the progress of your policy:

• How have you managed to complete your policy?

• How will you create/form and continue partnerships with others you have developed while working on your policy?

Spinners
Utilizing the game spinner have each participant take a turn at the spinner.  Read the question or topic to the group and discuss among the group. Use examples from your policy or institution. 

• Spinner.pdf

Samples

• Florida Association of Museums, Collections Mgmt & Dvlpment Policies Samples: http://www.flamuseums.org/professional-development/florida-connecting-to-collections-program/2016-collections-policies-collections-care-enhancement/collectionspolicies/collection-management-development-policies-samples/
  Note: When viewing the samples a new browser page will open.

Online Resources
Alaska State Museums - Policies, Plans and Procedural Documents (.pdf)

Things Great and Small: Collections Management Policies by John E. Simmons - Policy or Procedure (.pdf)

American Alliance of Museums, Developing a Collections Management Policy: http://www.aam-us.org/docs/default-source/continuum/developing-a-cmp-final.pdf?sfvrsn=4