The CofGâr collection contains many objects kindly donated by individuals, families and other groups and organisations over the last century.

Gifts like these help us tell the fascinating stories of the people and places of Carmarthenshire. Many of these might not have been known but for the generosity of our donors. So we want to continue to collect objects that are special or significant to our county.

But we already care for over 50,000 objects. So we don't have much space left to care for more. Imagine the time it takes to check on and conserve all these objects too!

This means that we can now only accept a small amount of the many kind offers we receive every month. We understand that this might be disappointing for some. Every object is valuable and loved in its own way. But to ensure that we give the best care for all objects that we look after now and in the future, we have to put limits on the kind of objects that we accept into the collection.

Please do not bring any objects into the museum without first making an appointment. We cannot accept or examine any objects without an appointment.

All accredited museums should have a policy guiding their decisions on which objects they should be collecting (and which ones they shouldn't). Accreditation is about putting in place standards and procedures to ensure museums are sustainable, focused and trusted. CofGâr is no different. All CofGâr museums are either accredited or working towards accreditation, so we need to make sure we meet the standards expected of us.

When objects are made available to us to collect, either as donations, bequests or purchases, we use six areas of 'significance' to help us decide what to do.

Great! If you have read the above examples and think your object might meet some of them, then we would like to hear from you.

What to do next

Fill in the form at the link below with us much detail as you can tell us about your object.

Donations Form

The criteria above gives you an idea of the kind of detail we would like to know. We definitely want to hear about its connection to Carmarthenshire and what you think makes it significant. Tell us all you can about the condition of your object and please attach photos of it too if you can.

Remember: we can only make a decision about whether to accept an object based on the information that you send us. The more detail you give us, the better.

Please note that we cannot give valuations of objects. We recommend contacting a local auction house for valuations.

Not yet. The CofGâr acquisitions group meets every few weeks to discuss objects that have been offered to the museums or that may be available to purchase. The group will discuss the extent to which each object meets the criteria shown above and will then make a decision on the suitability of the object for the collection.

In most cases, objects won't meet enough of the stated criteria to be accepted, while some cases may require us to seek more information. We will let you know the outcome by email or phone call as soon as we have made a decision.

For those objects that we'd like to accept, we will get back in touch with you to agree a convenient time for you to bring the object to the museum. Please wait until you have been booked in before bringing in your object.

Some objects we're offered might be perfect for our handling collection. These objects help children and other groups to engage with history in unique ways. From feeling the weight of a shield to putting your thumb in a fingerprint made by a Roman potter, touching an object connects you to the past like nothing else.

Objects that are used a lot will eventually get damaged or wear away. But, while they're in use, they will have played a vital role in bringing history to life for so many people.

When will it go on display?

Most objects we accept won't go on display immediately. Permanent exhibitions take a lot of time and effort to prepare. They're also carefully crafted around specific themes. Temporary exhibitions are planned well in advance too.

But this doesn't mean your object isn't valued. Your object will be conserved, documented and photographed, then used for education, research or future exhibitions. And, of course, you're always welcome to book an appointment to come and view the object whenever you like

Can I leave items to the museum in my will?

Yes. Please send us details of the offer and we will consider it and let you know whether the museum will be able to accept it, in line with our current Collecting Policy. Unfortunately, we are not able to guarantee that when the time comes circumstances have not changed, for example the museum may have acquired similar items in the meantime and as such we may no longer be in a position to accept your bequest.