Teaching Lending Collection

Who can join the lending program?
Anyone with an interest in the natural world is welcome to become a member of the PWM Lending Collection. All you need to do is fill out the interest form, pay your annual membership dues, and electronically sign the loan form agreeing to the care of the loaned objects.
What is the cost to become a member?
There is a $25 annual membership fee. This covers an unlimited number of loans within one calendar year along with general maintenance and upkeep of the Teaching Lending Collection.
How many objects can I get at a time?
You are able to take out up to 10 objects at a time. The loan is for a 2 week period, unless there is a waiting list for an object then the loan is for 1 week.
What happens if an object is damaged while I have it?
Your $25 membership covers normal “wear and tear” from objects being handled and moved, but if an object is badly damaged or destroyed you are responsible for 50% of its replacement cost.
Can I take the object out of its case to see it better?
No, the case protects the object from damage as well as protects you from any possible chemicals used in the preservation of older objects. All objects in cases are completely safe to handle so long as they remain inside the case.
Are the objects real?
The vast majority of our objects are. Those that are replicas will be clearly labeled as such.
Where do the objects come from?
The PWM  Teaching Lending Collection comes from private donations dating back to the 1940’s, purchases from science supply companies, and donations from organizations such as US Fish and Wildlife.
I have some objects you might want. Do you accept donations to the Lending Collection?
We do accept donations, but they must be reviewed by our collections manager first. Please email us with a clear set of photos of the object(s) along with as much information and documentation you have about them.
I have more questions. Who do I ask?
Please contact Rebecca, the program coordinator, at ridabramsATgmail.com