Access to the Collections
The collections are accessible through permanent gallery displays and changing special exhibitions each year, many of which tour to other regions of the country. The objects on display are only a small percentage of the whole collection, due to the limitations of space, but the special exhibitions allow different types of object to come out of store on a rotational basis. The stored collection remains accessible to anyone who wishes to see them. Requests can be made by arranging an appointment with a member of staff before your visit.

Objects are also being made accessible via the online collections.

Loans
The Museum encourages the loan of objects from its collections to other institutions and welcomes loan enquiries. Loans are also available for group handling and workshop use, but unfortunately we are not able to lend items to private individuals.

Gifts to the Museum
Many items have been kindly given to the Museum by individuals and institutions, and this continues to be a key way for us to acquire important objects.

Please click here to read about how and why the museum acquires new objects.

Please click here if you wish to donate an item.

Working with the Collections Volunteers who wish to work with the collections are always welcome and we value the skills, knowledge and time that they contribute to their care.

Please click here for more information on volunteering a the Museum.