|
|
| IMLS Award |
THE BAILEY-MATTHEWS SHELL MUSEUM AWARDED PRESTIGIOUS FEDERAL GRANT |
Thanks to a Museum Assessment Program Grant from the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services, The Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum on Sanibel Island took its first step toward accreditation by the American Association of Museums (AAM). “The grant money was used to pay travel expenses and honorarium for a surveyor chosen by AAM, who visited in late January,” explained Dr. José H. Leal, director of The Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum. “The Museum Assessment Program surveyor was Dr. Bruce McMillan, director of the Illinois State Museum in Springfield. He examined in detail the total operations of the museum, and will provide a report that will represent a road map to future accreditation,” Leal added. The Institute of Museum and Library Services is a federal grant-making agency located in Washington, D.C., which fosters leadership, innovation, and a lifetime of learning by supporting museums and libraries. “A thorough and professional assessment of a museum, especially a smaller one, not only allows the museum professional to recognize the full potential of their institution, but to make viable plans to reach it without wasting precious resources,” says Robert Martin, director of the institute. “It is especially rewarding to make these valuable grants in the year in which we are celebrating th 25th anniversary of the Museum Services Act – the legislation that created a federal agency to support the nation’s museums.” Edward H. Able Jr., president and chief executive officer of AAM, notes, “Since 1981, the Museum Assessment Program has provided nearly 5,000 successful assessments, leading to improved professional practices within museums of all types and sizes. It is an accomplishment worthy of celebrating the longstanding partnership between America’s museums and the federal government.” |
| Return to Main Page | ||