Hi Meghan,

 

Since we don't know the mission or location of your museum or what kind
of collections you have, it is hard to suggest anything too specific.
However, here are my general ideas:

 

If you guys offer educational programs/workshops or hold parties or
fundraising events, charge a fee for these special activities, but give
a discount to members.

 

Offer free members-only events, like a member appreciation day, gallery
opening receptions, or holiday celebrations.

 

If you don't already do this, have a Family Day or a Living History Day,
where you offer special activities, games, arts/crafts projects, and/or
demonstrations relating to your collection or the time period that your
museum focuses on. Charge admission, but give free or discounted
admission to members. As a kid, I remember going to Living History Days
with my girl scout troop at a historic 18th-century mansion near my
home. The staff dressed in period costume and showed us what life was
like back then. We learned how to churn butter, make corn husk dolls and
tin lanterns, and watch them light the fireplace and cook a stew in the
kitchen. We loved it, and begged to go back every year, so this is a
great way to hook younger visitors and, hopefully, get the parents to
buy a membership. The museum I work at now has a family day 3-4 times
each year, and it has really drawn interest and increased membership
from the local population.

 

I hope this helps! Good Luck!

 

Lindsay Ocal

Visitor Engagement Coordinator

Dixon Gallery and Gardens

4339 Park Avenue

Memphis, TN 38117

901.761.5250 ext. 102 | www.dixon.org 

 

 

From: Museum discussion list [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On
Behalf Of Meghan Molloy
Sent: Tuesday, November 06, 2012 2:20 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: [MUSEUM-L] Membership Drive ideas?

 

Hello All,

 

I work for a small town museum.  We are currently mulling over
strategies for a member drive.  At the moment, our members just get a
newsletter and a 10% discount on gift shop items.  We have no entrance
fee.  Does anyone have any suggestions to make membership more
appealing?  The specific issue that we're facing is that the majority of
our long time members are elderly.  While we appreciate them, we realize
the need to get younger people involved, especially those with families.

 

Best,

Meghan Molloy

CCHS Curator

 

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