Artifact Donation and Loan FAQ

Is the Berkeley County Museum currently accepting artifact donations or loans?
Unfortunately, the Berkeley County Museum is currently not accepting donations or loans of historic items and artifacts, except in specific extenuating circumstances. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to discussing your items soon!

Will my artifact be displayed?
What visitors don’t see in the museum is just as important as what they do! Our collection is large, but only a small percentage of these items can ever be displayed. We cannot guarantee any item will be displayed. However, once an object is donated, it becomes available to staff and researchers working on various projects. All items are well taken care of, even when not on display. While we cannot predict your items’ specific use, your generosity will instantly expand the amount of Berkeley County and South Carolina history available to the public!

Will I be credited if my item is placed in an exhibit?
Yes! The Museum allows, within reason, the donor/lender to decide what the credit reads. Artifacts may also be displayed anonymously if the donor/lender prefers. Our official paperwork will list your name as lender/donor for legal reasons, but the credit line is up to you!

Will the Berkeley County Museum appraise my items? Will they repair them?
No; the government considers this a conflict of interest for the museum. For information about appraisals or appraisers, please contact the American Society of Appraisers.  Donors who need an object repaired or conserved should speak with a professional conservator, as the Museum does not offer these services.

How are potential donations/loans reviewed?
Potential donations/loans are reviewed by the Museum Director and presented to the Board. We consider the Museum’s collection policies and the item’s place within the museum’s scope. We also consider the condition of the object and the availability of resources to care for these objects properly. 

Can I see objects I’ve donated if they’re not on display?
With an appointment, donors are welcome to visit the Museum to see their donated/loaned items that aren’t on display.

How do researchers access artifacts and items in the Berkeley County Museum collection?
Interested parties should contact the Museum to make an appointment.

If you have further questions about the Museum’s collection policies, please get in touch with us. A complete collections policy can be found here. Thank you to all donors and lenders who support the Berkeley County Museum’s collections!