This discussion about donating instruments to charity has another
element of interest.  Many collectors, myself included, acquire
original literature that screams to be shared.  Unfortunately, our
heirs often do not share our enthusiasm for all "this old paper",
perceiving it to have no value other than the recycling bin, lost
forever.

I fully support donation of original literature to institutions, as
they typically excel at care and protection, _but_ donate it only after
it has been scanned and made available to our collecting community
through the magic and power of the internet.  The information contained
within has value far in excess of the value of the original paper.

I would urge all collectors to include within their wills, a provision
for their collection of original literature not ever to be disposed of
via BlueBox recycling.  Ideally, direct it to be donated to any one of
a number of associations dedicated to the preservation of this unique
slice of our musical heritage.  Future researchers will be grateful,
and our future members the beneficiaries.

Thoughts of others?

Regards,
Terry Smythe
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada