The Museum holds these collections in trust for present and future studies of natural history. Their long-term preservation and accessibility for study is essential. The research collections areas of the Virginia Tech Museum of Natural History are closed to the general public in order to provide the best possible care for the collections. However, the Museum occasionally hosts open houses to provide access to this fascinating resource, and special arrangements can be made with the collections staff for suitable visits. Educational uses of the collections are considered.
Researchers are always welcome in the collections, though advance notice is appreciated.
Loans are made to appropriate institutions. University Collections Policy. We hold these collections on behalf of the citizens of Virginia for present and future studies of natural history which depend upon maintenance of international access to specimens and the understanding of an informed decision-making public. These collections represent a unique resource for research, education, and public outreach, with particular value in undergraduate and graduate instruction and professional training. These Policies are intended to provide a consistent and widely recognized policy.