Storing Rare Manuscripts: Options for Private Owners

If a private buyer were to purchase a rare manuscript at auction, one of the most pressing questions would be where to store it after the transaction. Ensuring the safety and preservation of rare and valuable items is crucial, and there are several options available to collectors.

Art Collectors and Museums

While many art collectors loan their works to museums, this is not a common practice for manuscripts. Museums, while providing excellent storage with controlled environments, typically do not offer loan storage for private collections. However, there are storage warehouses in big cities that cater specifically to the needs of art collectors and rare book enthusiasts. These facilities accept valuable works, provided they are deemed suitable by the curator, and can offer a sense of public recognition and potential tax benefits to the donor.

Libraries and Rare Book Collections

For those willing to let scholars have controlled access to their manuscript, libraries and rare book collections can be an excellent alternative. Institutions such as the Bancroft Library, the Huntington Library, and the Morgan Library are well-known for their extensive collections and the opportunity they provide for scholarly access.

These institutions not only offer secure storage but also enhance the donor’s public recognition and contribute to the cultural fabric of the community. By donating items to these institutions, collectors can feel a sense of accomplishment and have the option of gifting or selling the manuscript later, depending on various factors such as tax planning and estate considerations.

Art Storage Warehouses

For private collectors who prefer to maintain their collections off-site, art storage warehouses are a viable option. These warehouses offer customized storage solutions that cater to the unique needs of valuable items. While museums and libraries do not typically charge for loans, art storage facilities do offer this service and can charge a fee for manuscripts, though it is likely to be relatively low for such a small item like a manuscript.

Bank Safe Deposit Boxes

Another convenient option is using a bank safe deposit box. However, to ensure the optimal conditions for the manuscript, it is advisable to install a recording thermometer and hygrometer within the box to monitor environmental conditions. Storing a rare manuscript in a safe deposit box offers a level of security and accessibility that is ideal for collectors who prefer a more private storage solution.

Conclusion

Private owners of rare manuscripts need to carefully consider their storage options after purchasing an item at auction. Ensuring its safety and preservation is paramount, and seeking advice from institutions that specialize in such matters is highly recommended. Museums and libraries can offer a combination of security, public recognition, and flexibility in terms of access and ownership, while art storage warehouses and safe deposit boxes provide convenient and secure alternatives for off-site storage.

Three institutions that come to mind are the Bancroft Library, the Huntington Library, and the Morgan Library. These institutions are well-suited for collectors who are willing to let scholars have carefully controlled access to their materials, thus enhancing the cultural and research value of the manuscript.