I think Brent and JD have made excellent points. The institution must have continuity, and to some degree, it must be self supporting. Michael has an extensive library, data base, photos & many other items, including files on rifles of interest. His work should be preserved (and used, in a positive manner). I think one way to accomplish this is through an endowed curatorship. The mechanism(s) for endowment are reasonably straightforward.
Michael is not the only person deserving of having his work preserved. I have seen private firearms libraries donated to our local "Friends of the Library". When these ladies get gun books, they burn them. I would like to see an institution enabled to receive private libraries or collections through donation or through purchase at fair prices. The institution should be able to keep any needed items and dispose of duplicates, etc. in some reasonable manner.
