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The US’s Institute of Museum and Library Services has launched a pilot National Museum Survey as part of its ongoing mission to invest in the future of the country’s museums
Lauren Heath-Jones | Planet Attractions | 04 Aug 2023
More than 7,000 museums across the US have been invited to take part in the pilot Credit: Flickr
The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) in the US has launched a pilot National Museum Survey (NMS) as part of its ongoing mission to invest in the future of the country’s museums.
Running until September 15, the survey will inform the feasibility of an annual nationwide survey that gathers and shares foundational data about essential work being carried out in US museums.
Approximately 7,050 museums across the US – including zoos, aquariums, science centres, art galleries and history museums – have been invited to take part in the survey, with the aim to capture information about their facilities, financial data, human resources details, admissions, visitors, outreach, digital presence, and diversity, equity and inclusion policies.
The goal of the pilot is to explore the best way to engage museums in successful survey participation, with plans to roll out a permanent NMS in 2025 that will capture the scope, reach and importance of the work carried out in museums and related institutions across the US.
The data collected will help to shape the work of policymakers and museum professionals through published data tools and topical reports.
The IMLS plans to use its findings to develop an interactive database where users will be able to view their institution’s data and compare it to others.
“Currently, there is no annual federal data collection about museums in the US, and policymakers have acknowledged that there is a real need for reliable national statistics,” said IMLS deputy director Laura Huerta Migus.
“IMLS is here to answer that call. By showcasing the scope and reach of museums in communities across the country, the NMS will inspire new ways to efficiently invest in our nation’s historical, natural and cultural infrastructure.”
IMLS director Crosby Kemper III added: “IMLS has surveyed the nation’s libraries for many years, but this is the first time the organisation will be reaching out to capture the work of museums and related institutions. This represents a significant investment in the field, and it will, we believe, create an understanding of the important role that museums play in our nation.
“Museum practitioners, researchers, journalists, the public, local practitioners and policymakers can use the data for planning, evaluation and policymaking. It will help them better engage with the public, develop connections with policymakers and connect with others in the field.”
Museums and galleries
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