For the first time, the U.S. museum profession's current operating
standards in areas from public accountability to facilities and risk management
are available in a single publication. This guide is an essential reference
work for the museum community, presenting the ideals that should be upheld
by every museum striving to maintain excellence in its operations. An introductory
section explains how virtually anyone associated with museums will find
the book valuable, from trustees to staff to funders and the media. It is followed
by a full outline of the standards, including the overarching Characteristics
of Excellence and the seven areas of performance they address. Throughout
the book is commentary by Elizabeth E. Merritt, former director of AAM's
Museum Advancement and Excellence Department and founding director of the
Alliance's Center for the Future of Museums.
"Insightful commentary by Elizabeth Merritt rings loud and clear and
accompanies a concise compilation of policies, practices and plans for managing
museums in the twenty-first century. Every museum professional should look to
National Standards and Best Practices for U.S. Museums for direction in
museum administration and collection stewardship, education programs and
exhibitions."
— Tim White, assistant director for collections and operations, Yale
Peabody Museum; president, Society for the Preservation of Natural History
Collections
As a benefit of membership in the Alliance, staff who work at a
member museum may download this book as a free PDF. Just add the PDF to your cart. There will be no charge at checkout.
Please note: one free download per staff member
Also available from Amazon as a Kindle e-Book: National Standards & Best
Practices for U.S. Museums