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May 2001
A group of Friends of our museum organise fundraising and other activities that we value greatly. Recently, however, the Friends held an event in the museum that worried me. I understood that an expert in historic timepieces would give a lecture followed by a session at which he would help identify items brought in by those attending.
I was later told that the expert had given financial valuations. I raised the issue at a Friends committee meeting. It became clear that they saw no harm in holding a similar event in future, even though I pointed out that it is museum policy not to give valuations.
As the curator I can prevent the Friends from using museum premises for this purpose but they have indicated that if they cannot use the museum they will find another venue.
I do not want to jeopardise the museum's good relationship with the Friends but I am unhappy at the thought of the museum being associated in the public mind with inappropriate activities irrespective of where they are held. What is your advice?
You are right therefore to object to holding valuation events on museum premises. The code of ethics urges us to 'recognise that all who work for the museum in any capacity have a contribution to make to its successful operation'. You are right therefore to value the Friends of your museum.
However, the code also makes it clear that it is the responsibility of 'all those who work for or govern museums' to ensure that they uphold a common system of ethical values. And that includes Friends, volunteers and others who work in support of museums.
Do your best to explain tactfully why the museum cannot allow itself, or its name, to be associated with events that are inconsistent with its purpose and policies. Remember that the Friends are there to support the museum, not the other way around.
Members of Friends' organisations are often highly motivated and committed people, and may also be quite influential.
Dealing with any conflict will therefore call for tactful handling, if a straightforward explanation of the issue fails to resolve the situation.
Enlisting the assistance of the British Association of Friends of Museums is a recourse you may need to consider to add weight to your argument. Don't forget that your ultimate sanction is to disband the Friends, if they persist in actions that are likely to bring the museum into disrepute.
See also the MA's statement on valuation events
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