Deaccessioning Museum Objects
Transparency and ethics in disposal practice
Format:Hardback
Publisher:Taylor & Francis Ltd
Publishing:16th Apr '25
£52.99
This title is due to be published on 16th April, and will be despatched as soon as possible.
Deaccessioning Museum Objects is an innovative exploration of museum collections management practice and the ethical complexities of object disposal within the contemporary social context.
Disposal of objects from museum collections aids the creation of dynamic and sustainable institutions but can be perceived as a betrayal of public trust and professional duty. Written by an experienced museum professional and researcher, Jennifer Durrant delves into the historical development of disposal to offer insight to the fundamental transience of museum collections. Durrant explains the ethical timeliness and social responsibility of object removal, presenting real-life examples and practical models for transparency creation to show how deaccessioning can be brought to public view and understanding. Emphasising the interaction between professional practice, personal action, and the centrality of conscious reflection, Durrant helpfully investigates what ‘open and honest’ working entails and explores the creation of transparency to museum practices through the lens of disposal.
The combination of theory and practice within Deaccessioning Museum Objects is essential reading for academics and students of museums and heritage; and practitioners in museums, galleries, libraries and archives around the world.
Deaccessioning museum objects is refreshingly grounded in a well-balanced discussion of practice and theory. Jennifer Durrant presents the often-knotty issue of disposal from museum collections with great clarity and insight. It should be a key reference for museum professionals.
Professor Alice Stevenson, UCL Institute of Archaeology
I confidently recommend this book. Jennifer Durrant explores complex issues surrounding the management of museum collections in a clear and practical way, making the subject much easier to understand. She provides a strong ethical narrative, supported by comprehensive case studies.
Professor Janet Ulph, University of Leicester
This is an innovative and theoretically sophisticated account of disposal. Durrant unpicks past and present practices to offer new sector-focused recommendations for transparent communication. Pushing forward wider discussion of this crucial element of collections management, it is essential reading for students, scholars, and practitioners.
Dr Jennie Morgan, University of Stirling
Durrant ably integrates, and advocates for, combined attention to values, ethics, creativity and transparency of disposal. Deaccessioning museum objects offers innovative approaches for museums small and large, of any genre, seeking to serve their audiences in responsible, sustainable, and engaged ways.
Cara Krmpotich, Professor, Museum Studies, Faculty of Information, University of Toronto
Dr Durrant's work on museums, collecting and ethics is always thoughtful and practical and this book will be as much use in the curatorial office as in the university library.
Michael Terwey, Director of Public Engagement & Research, National Trust for Scotland and Chair of the Museum Association's Ethics Committee.
A must read for anyone working in this area. One highlight is the acknowledgement of people, in what has been long thought of as an object process. Durrant advocates working sensitively with communities to maintain trust, and articulates the emotional impact of disposal on the workforce.
Tamsin Russell, Museums Association
ISBN: 9781032618425
Dimensions: unknown
Weight: unknown
152 pages