Designation

The Designation Scheme identifies the pre-eminent collections of national and international importance held in England's non-national museums, libraries and archives, based on their quality and significance. These inspiring collections represent a vital part of our national cultural and artistic heritage.

The Scheme recognises that organisations with Designated collections care for a significant part of England's cultural heritage. It was launched in 1997 for museums only, and extended to libraries and archives in 2005. The Scheme now covers over 100 collections held in museums, libraries and archives.

Benefits of the Scheme
Applying for Designated status
Designation Panel
Logo guidelines 

 Full list of Designated collections July 2008 (PDF 297KB)
 Promoting Designated collections: A guide for museums, libraries and archives with Designated collections (PDF 112KB)

Contacting the Designation Team

For further information on the Designation Scheme, please contact any member of our Designation Team: 

Paula Brikci (Designation Manager) and Sarah Waldron (Team Assistant)
The Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA)
Grosvenor House
14 Bennetts Hill
Birmingham
B2 5RS
Email: designation@mla.gov.uk
Tel: +44 (0)121 345 7300
Fax: +44 (0)121 345 7303