As employees retire and as the Postal Service’s physical infrastructure changes, some may be tempted to leave historic items in unused spaces or even keep the items for themselves — especially if they were used throughout a long career. However, these items belong to USPS, and theft of USPS property is a federal felony.

Local postal officials may not dispose of historic items — whether by loan, donation, sale, or otherwise — without the approval of the USPS historian. Requests for approval must include a photograph and description of the item.

For further information, see Postal Bulletin 22335 (PDF).