The following definition of a curator comes from the new book
       "Museum Jobs From A-Z: What They Are, How To Prepare, and Where
       To Find Them" revised and edited by G.W. Bates (Fort Lauderdale,
       FL: Batax Museum Publishing, 1994).  I got my copy from the AAM
       bookstore through the mail.  It is essentially a alphabetical
       listing of all types for museum positions.  For each job title it
       has an occupational statement (what the person's job
       responsibilities are); education, training and experience needed;
       physical demands; helpful personal characteristics; where to find
       these jobs; and opportunities for employment and promotion.  The
       descriptions, in my view, are a little general, but they are a
       helpful starting point.  Here's what it says about curators:
 
       "Provides professional care for objects in collection, plans and
       conducts research, participates in planning and implementation of
       special projects, and oversees activities of workers in museum,
       zoo, or other institution: Works with administrators to acquire
       articles or specimens for collection through purchase, gifts,
       field work, or transfer from other institution. Studies,
       examines, tests acquisitions to determine or authenticate origin,
       composition, history, and current value, utilizing appropriate
       techniques, and basing evaluation on knowledge of specialized
       area of science, art, or history to which items relate.  Assigns
       code numbers to items and records descriptive information to
       assist registrar, or maintain institution's registration files,
       and to provide resource material for planning exhibit, education,
       publication, and research activities. Consults with other staff
       members to determine factors critical to preservation of
       collection; institutes appropriate procedures, such as control of
       temperature, humidity, exposure to light, and protection from
       damage by insects, fungus, or bacteria to preserve items in
       storage or exhibit areas. Inspects collection items regularly and
       confers with conservation personnel to determine and implement
       activities to restore or repair damaged or deteriorated items.
       Works with other staff members to plan and organize educational,
       public service, special exhibit, and other projects. Plans,
       executes, or participates in research or field studies, and
       publishes articles or lectures on results. Represents institution
       at conferences and seminars. Directs and coordinates activities
       of workers, graduate students, and museum interns assigned to
       department, and assists students in planning and carrying out
       projects for academic credit. May teach classes for institution
       or college. May prepare proposals for financial support by
       outside agencies and be responsible for administration of grant
       funds. In small institutions, may also perform duties of
       director."
 
       I hope this helps.  I have some further thoughts, but I think
       this message is too long already.
 
       With every good wish,
 
       Steven
 
 
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Steven R. Smith
Art Collection                                      Tel: (617)495-3150
Harvard Law School                                  FAX: (617)495-4449
Cambridge, MA  02138                  E-mail: [log in to unmask]
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