The Brian Sutton-Smith Library and Archives of Play® at The Strong welcomes donations that advance The Strong’s mission to collect, preserve, and research historical objects, manuscripts, and other materials that illustrate and document the role of play in learning and human development, and the ways in which it illuminates cultural history, particularly but not exclusively, in America.
Frequently asked questions about donating materials
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What types of materials are of interest?
From individual items to comprehensive collections, the Brian Sutton-Smith Library and Archives of Play is interested in a broad range of play-related materials. Of primary interest are the records of toy and game designers and inventors; marketing, advertising, and other promotional and informational materials about toys and games; trade publications of the toy and game industries; personal and professional papers and publications of play scholars; primary and secondary publications that document the history of play; and published and unpublished works written by dedicated collectors of toys and games.
Should I organize my collection before offering it to the Library and Archives?
It is not necessary to organize a collection prior to offering it to the Brian Sutton-Smith Library and Archives of Play. Library and archives staff will organize the materials after they arrive.
What are the financial implications of a donation?
In keeping with professional standards and accreditation requirements of the American Association of Museums, neither The Strong nor its Brian Sutton-Smith Library and Archives of Play appraise items offered for donation. Donors are encouraged to seek the advice of counsel before claiming deductions for the purpose of computing income and heritance taxes under state and federal laws. The Internal Revenue Service has determined that The Strong qualifies as a 501(c)(3) organization and exempt from federal income tax. The donor is responsible for securing any appraisals necessary. The Strong assumes no responsibility to appraise donations for tax purposes.
What is a Deed of Gift?
A Deed of Gift is a formal document that transfers legal ownership of the donated item(s) to The Strong. Provisions within the document allow donors to choose how they want their donation acknowledged, to define or assign intellectual property rights, and to specify preferences for research access.
Can I get to my materials again after I donate them?
Yes, the Brian Sutton-Smith Library and Archives of Play is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. until noon and from 1 to 4:30 p.m.
Who should I contact for more information?
Please contact Carol Sandler, director of library and archives at The Strong, at library@thestrong.org or 585-410-6349.
