Karen wrote:
>
> Hello!  I am seeking help with research I am doing concerning the
> "mission" of museums.  I understand each museum has it's own
> distinctive reason for being, goals and purposes; but is there an
> over-riding purpose for the museum (re. zoo, art museum, natural
> history centre, etc)?  To preserve and educate is a necessary and
> vital function, I agree; but for this research I must play the
> "devil's advocate" and agrue the necessity of the museum for both
> mankind as well as individuals of all socio-economic backgrounds.
> All help and (constructive) opinions are appreciated.  Thank you.
>

In reply to Karen:
You might be interested in the mission statement of the Science
Museum of Virginia. It is part of the Code of Virginia (state law)
since we are a state agency. Although written about 27 years ago, we
have revisitedit recently and find it to be as fresh and compelling
for us as ever in its history!
QUOTE:
The purposes of the
Science Museum of Virginia
are:
*       to deepen our understanding of man and his environment;
*       to promote a knowledge of the scientific method and thus
encourage objectivity in the everyday affairs of man;
*       to engage in instruction and research in the sciences in
order to educate citizens of all ages in the concepts and principles
of science and how these concepts and principles form the foundation
upon which rests our technological society and its economy;
*       to use, subject to the approval of the accredited
educational facilities concerned, Museum personnel in educational
programs;
*       to motivate and stimulate young people to seek careers in
science;
*       to encourage an understanding of the history of scientific
endeavor;
*       to provide special facilities and collections for the study
of Virginia's natural resources; and,
*       to foster a love of nature and a concern for its
preservation.

These purposes are hereby declared to be a matter of legislative
determination.
Code of Virginia 23-240
UNQUOTE

Best with your research,
Walter
--
Walter R. T. Witschey, Ph.D.
Director, Science Museum of Virginia
2500 West Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23220
Voice: (804) 367-6799,  FAX (804) 367-9348
e-mail [log in to unmask]