Published in conjunction with the Chinese Association of Museums. 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 AAM'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
