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DIY Workbook for Small Museums: A Comprehensive Guide from the American Association for State and Local History

Eric Nelson

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Published in Exhibit Makeovers: A Do It Yourself Workbook For Small Museums (American Association For State And Local History)

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Small museums play a vital role in preserving and interpreting local history, fostering community pride, and promoting tourism. However, operating a small museum can be challenging, especially with limited resources. The American Association for State and Local History (AASLH) has developed a comprehensive Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Workbook to assist small museums in navigating the diverse aspects of museum management. This article provides an overview of the DIY Workbook, highlighting its key features and benefits for small museums.

What is the DIY Workbook?

The DIY Workbook is a practical guide designed to provide small museums with the tools and resources they need to operate effectively. It covers a wide range of topics essential for museum management, including:

Exhibit Makeovers: A Do-It-Yourself Workbook for Small Museums (American Association for State and Local History)

by William Burckart

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8904 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	138 pages

* Mission and Vision Development * Strategic Planning * Collections Management * Exhibit Development * Marketing and Outreach * Fundraising and Development * Risk Management * Sustainability

The Workbook is divided into 12 modules, each focusing on a specific aspect of museum management. Each module includes step-by-step instructions, sample forms, and worksheets to guide museums through the planning and implementation process.

Benefits of the DIY Workbook for Small Museums

The DIY Workbook offers numerous advantages for small museums, including:

* Comprehensive and Accessible: The Workbook covers a broad range of museum management topics, providing a comprehensive resource for small museums seeking guidance. * Step-by-Step Instructions: Each module includes clear and concise step-by-step instructions, making it easy for museums to implement best practices. * Sample Forms and Worksheets: The Workbook provides sample forms and worksheets to assist museums in developing policies, plans, and other operational documents. * Self-Paced Learning: Museums can work through the modules at their own pace, allowing them to tailor the learning experience to their specific needs. * Cost-Effective: The DIY Workbook is available for a nominal fee, making it an affordable resource for small museums.

Key Features of the DIY Workbook

The DIY Workbook incorporates several key features that enhance its usability and effectiveness:

* Case Studies and Examples: The Workbook includes case studies and examples from real-world small museums, demonstrating how the concepts and strategies can be applied in practice. * Expert Advice: The Workbook draws upon the expertise of AASLH staff and industry professionals, providing museums with credible and up-to-date information. * Online Resources: The DIY Workbook is complemented by online resources, such as webinars, articles, and downloadable materials, providing museums with ongoing support. * Collaboration and Idea Sharing: The Workbook encourages museums to collaborate and share ideas through online forums and social media platforms.

How to Use the DIY Workbook

The DIY Workbook is designed to be flexible and adaptable to the specific needs of each small museum. Here is a suggested approach for using the Workbook:

* Assess Needs: Identify the areas of museum management that require the most attention and prioritize accordingly. * Select Modules: Choose the modules that align with the prioritized areas and work through them sequentially. * Implement Strategies: Use the step-by-step instructions, sample forms, and worksheets to implement the strategies outlined in each module. * Monitor and Evaluate: Regularly assess the progress and effectiveness of implemented strategies and make adjustments as needed.

The DIY Workbook from AASLH is an invaluable resource for small museums seeking to strengthen their operations and enhance their impact. Its comprehensive coverage, step-by-step guidance, and practical tools empower small museums to address challenges and achieve success. By utilizing the DIY Workbook, small museums can effectively fulfill their essential role in preserving and interpreting local history, fostering community engagement, and promoting cultural understanding.