Hi Laura!

I could be mistaken, but I believe the word "docent" was
adopted by many - not all - museums as it better defines
those paid/non-paid employees roles and responsibilities
than the previous term "tour guide."  A "tour guide" is one
who leads or directs another's way indicating points of
interest.  "Docents," on the other hand, are specially
trained to provide more information than just indicating
points of interest.  Hence, the use of "docent" which is
related to the Latin for "guide" (Latin: dux ducis) and
"teacher" (Latin: doctor).

Hope this helps.

Jay Heuman, Visitor & Volunteer Services Coordinator
Joslyn Art Museum, 2200 Dodge Street, Omaha, NE, 68102
342-3300 (telephone)     342-2376 (fax)
http://www.joslyn.org

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