The Bethesda Historical Society, established in 2020 in Maryland, has made a commendable stride by crafting a collections management policy ahead of their growing collection of 400 artifacts and documents. Thanks to a local foundation grant, the Historical Society enlisted Mary van Balgooy from Engaging Places to develop a policy that aligns with professional standards and is manageable by a small organization using PastPerfect.

We’re thrilled to share this policy as a benchmark for small museums and historical societies. It succinctly addresses mission; roles of board, staff, and volunteers; ethical and legal aspects; collection scope, definitions, acquisitions, loans, documentation, appraisals, intellectual property, and policy reviews—all within a concise 15 pages!