Does anyone know why museums use the term "docent" to refer to volunteer
tour guides?  I know the word originates from Latin for "to teach", but am
looking for why/when museums started using the word and why it's still used
today.

We are running a campaign called "What is a Docent?" to recruit new
volunteers to the program this fall.  We're hoping to pitch a light article
to a local columnist about this odd word.  Any assitance would be
appreciated.  Thanks!

Laura Pursley
Education Specialist for Adult & Docent Programs
Harn Museum of Art
PO Box 112700
Gainesville, FL 32611
352-392-9826

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