Visiting a Museum

Introduction to Public History

What type of museum are you visiting?

What is the mission of the museum? Educational, commemorative, advocacy, other

Is the museum historically honest in its presentation?

What factors influence the interpretation? Examples might be local sensitivity to an issue, lack of artifacts, uncertainty about or lack of research.

What is the primary audience of the museum? School groups, fans, children, adults

Is the museum well taken car of?

What is the primary method of conveying information to the public? Guided tours, docents, signage, etc

How successful was the museum staff in conveying a theme and one to three major points to visitors?

Does the museum offer programs that might tempt you to return? Where you made aware of programs and activities?

Were you comfortable in the museum? Physically, socially

Did you feel welcome?