The primary reason for holding specimens is their use in scientific research and education. Thus the policies for access to collections and for loans are designed to maximize the usefulness of the collections while minimizing risk of damage to or loss of the collections. Loans of specimens are approved by the Curator, and are made to researchers representing not-for profit institutions. Students may borrow specimens only with the written approval of their faculty advisor. Loans are made for one year at a time, with consideration of written renewal requests.
Staff make every effort to respond to loan requests promptly.
Access to and loans of specimens Access to the collections by a visiting researcher must be requested in advance. Research associates have authorized access to the department and library. The Herpetology Department follows the institutional policy in approving sampling requests. Conditions and limits must be agreed to by the borrower in writing in advance of the work. Documentation of the testing and results should be made available to the Museum upon return of the specimen, or remaining portion.