DONATIONS TO COLLECTIONS

During more than 200 years of history, donations of books and collections by members and friends have been critical to making the Linen Hall Library the unique resource that it is. Whether you bring us a recently published leaflet, pamphlet or book, or are willing to make a more extensive donation, you are continuing a rich tradition that benefits future generations. All donations are cherished, and no donated item is too small.

Advice
The Librarian and other specialist staff will gladly advise on our response to any particular offer of a donation, or on any intended bequest. In particular we will advise on how a proposed donation or bequest will fit the Library's collection policy, and on how, in detail, we would propose to handle the gift concerned. We may advise that a proposed donation is inappropriate for us and recommend donation to another institution.

Handling of Donations

· The terms of any agreement in respect of a major donation are confirmed in writing to the donor or prospective donor.

· All donations are acknowledged in writing by the Board of Governors, and all donors are listed in the Annual Report for the year.

· Major donations are reported in more detail in the Library News Letter and the Annual Report.

· All donated books added to our collections are given a book-plate recording the name of the donor.

· All donations are computer catalogued as soon as possible with the name of the donor attached to the record.

· Very major donations may be given the designation of a special collection.

Collection Policy

The Library's key in-depth collections are in the field of Irish and local studies understood in its broadest sense, and including particular sub-specialisms such as the Northern Ireland Political Collection, the Theatre and Performing Arts Archive, the Languages of Ulster.

· The Library also has specialisms in the fields of Burns and Burnsiana, family history and genealogy.

· The Library collects literary manuscripts, and archives of specific relevance to these key collections.

· In these areas all major donations are cherished, and no donated item is too small.

· The Library also maintains an extensive general collection, but does not normally aim to permanently hold material in depth in this area.

Book Sale Policy

The Library does not sell books donated to it by members and the public, unless explicit permission to do so is given. In respect of its key collections, the Library only sells multiple duplicates, and where these are not of bibliographical significance. In respect of its general lending collections the Library sells books not in demand and to create space for new acquisitions. Funds raised from book sales help to support the book fund and the strengthening of our collections.

For further details, please contact John Gray, Librarian, on 028 9032 1707 F: 028 9043 8586 E: info@linenhall.com