This has raised some very relevant points for discussion.  I have been hearing things of this nature for quite some time now (i.e. that museums are a nice thing to have, but when it comes down to it, other things, such as military spending, take precedence.) It is a continual battle to convince LOCAL government that museums are a vital part of the lives of its citizens.  This has raised another interesting debate in my mind... as museums are increasingly under duress for funding in the current situation, how is the best way to convince not only the government, but the public (and individual private donors) that their money is needed now more than ever to support museums?  My local government tends to lean more towards supporting sport centers for youth, rather than the traditional cultural institutions such as museums and libraries.  Are there any thoughts on these issues out there?

Teresa Whitt, Director/Curator,
South Charleston Museum,
South Charleston, WV

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