I'd like to turn this discussion in a little different direction.  I can well
understand the plight of a person with a back problem wanting to stretch out
on a museum bench to relieve the pain, and I think a guard should permit it if
an explanation is given.  However, I think as a general rule guards might be
expected to discourage people from lying down in an exhibition area because
(a) seating areas are intended primarily for sitting, and lying down may hog a
whole bench and prevent others who wish to sit to rest from using the
accommodation, and (b) other visitors may be offended by an apparent lack of decorum.
It may look like loitering, and museums need not feel obligated to provide
space for visitors to nap.  I think a good approach for a guard to make when
spotting a patron lying down would be to ask if the person is feeling ill.  If the
answer is yes, I'd let the afflicted person rest for a reasonable time.  If
the answer is no, I'd tactfully encourage him to sit up.

Having broached the issue of decorum, I'm reminded of an incident I observed
at the Indianapolis Museum of Art a couple of years ago.  A young man and
woman touring the galleries were wearing sweaters tied around their waists, and a
guard sternly told them to remove the garments.  As the couple seemed to be
Europeans whose first language was not English, they did not immediately
understand the guard, and he impatiently repeated the request, pointing to the
sweaters.  Confused, they untied the sweaters and carried them.  I was as puzzled by
the guards' annoyance as they were.  Can anyone tell me what on earth is
wrong with wearing a sweater in this casual fashion in an art museum?  I can
appreciate a concern about visitors lying down, but the sweater problem has me
beat.  Enlightenment, anyone?

David Haberstich

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