About the NUMU Permanent Collection
NUMU collects works of art and historical artifacts that engage and expand interest in the globally relevant arts and histories of the Bay Area with a special focus on Los Gatos. NUMU has been a collecting museum since its inception as the Los Gatos Museum in 1965. Like most museums, we collects objects and materials of cultural and historical importance, and preserves, researches and presents them to the public for the purpose of education and enjoyment. NUMU’s Permanent Collection consists of objects, archives, and artwork tied to the history of Los Gatos and the surrounding communities.
Questions?
Call 408.354.2646
Email collections@numulosgatos.org
Donate to the NUMU Permanent Collection
NUMU accepts selective donations of artwork and historical artifacts, and has an active collections committee that meets to review submissions. The committee and Museum are committed to the principle that the collection process conforms to the highest standards of ethical and professional museum practices, and aligns with the Museum’s mission to preserve Los Gatos history. We are unable to accept items simply because they are “antique,” no matter how fascinating they might be.
Please Note: While NUMU works to complete Phase 1 the Los Gatos History Project, the Museum is not accepting object donations at this time. If you would like to submit an item(s) for donation please fill out the form on below. We will get back to you when we are ready to receive new donations. THANK YOU!
NUMU accepts artworks and artifacts as either unrestricted or restricted gifts to the Museum’s Permanent Collection. Unrestricted gifts may or may not remain as part of the Permanent Collection - in that they may be traded for other works of art or sold to otherwise support NUMU’s Permanent Collection or other Museum programs. Restricted gifts are accepted only for perpetual use in the Permanent Collection. This may include items being available for loan to other qualified institutions with whom we partner.
Works of art and historical artifacts accepted into the Permanent Collection are intended to significantly enhance the Museum's stated mission and are subject to all Museum policies and requirements.
The Museum will not provide appraisals to donors per its longstanding policy. Under current IRS guidelines, NUMU cannot act as a qualified appraiser because of the inherent conflict with its role as a donee. If a donor asks for assistance in locating an appropriate appraiser, the Collections staff may suggest qualified appraisers, including art dealers and auction houses.
Please click the appropriate link below to complete a donation offer submission form:
Learn more about the Los Gatos History Project!
The goal of the Los Gatos History Project (LGHP), launched in September 2020, is to tell untold stories of Los Gatos and surrounding communities through an exploration of NUMU’s permanent art and history collections.
