GUIDELINES FOR THE CURATION OF GEOLOGICAL MATERIALS

2.1.3.8. Micropalaeontology
Record exact horizon of each sample.
Sample only a narrow stratigraphic thickness of sediment - never more than
15 cm - preferably much less. A quantity of 1Kg is usually sufficient.
Avoid contamination during collecting. Clear away all surface material from
the part of the rock face to be sampled. Collect preferably coherent blocks of
'fresh' rock.
Normally avoid decalcified or over-weathered material. Use suitable strong
clean bags to avoid post-collecting contamination.
2.2. SECONDARY ACQUISITION
2.2.1. Methods
Five methods of secondary acquisition can be identified, for which the documentation
procedures are set out in Part B.
2.2.1.1. Donation
When deciding to accept a donation, a curator must be aware that the object(s)
concerned fall under the laws of public trust. As a result unless clearly stated in
the conditions of transfer of title, the assumption, in law, will be that the
receiving institution has taken on custodial or fiduciary responsibility for the
object on behalf of the public 'in perpetuity'. Consequently the institution's
freedom to use or dispose of such an object is strictly curtailed (see B6.2.2. under
Disposal).
It is vital that documentation relating to the transfer of title (i.e. ownership) is
clear and unambiguous. Some form of documentary declaration of transfer signed
by the donor, must be retained in the receiving institution, in case title is ever
challenged. (Too often the only documentary evidence of transfer is some form of
receipt or a letter of thanks, signed only by representatives of the receiving
institution.)
Bequest
Very similar legal implications apply to the receipt of a bequest as to a donation.
Rarely does the opportunity arise for the curator to discuss conditions with the
testator before he dies, and the executors' powers to negotiate are limited!
A curator may feel a moral obligation to accept a bequest because to do
otherwise might cause distress or outrage to the family of the deceased. Again
this is a situation which calls for immense tact. However, the curator's first moral
obligation is to his profession and if the material or any conditions attached
thereto make it professionally unacceptable then he must not acquire it.
When a bequest is accepted. documentary proof of transfer of title should,
ideally, include a letter from the executors (usually solicitors) describing the
bequest and, if possible a copy of the will as signed by the testator.