I don't know if any experts have written on this but I can speak from
personal experience at our museum (a French Indian Fur Trade history museum). At
least 75% of our visitors are under 18 and probably at least 85% of our special
programs are geared to families. By keeping the museum family friendly we
naturally have new visitors coming on a regular basis. I am not uncommon when I say
I first found out about our museum when I was a Girl Scout Leader looking for
community rresources to share with my girls. Many years later (I won't say
howe many) I am now working here and also bringing my grandchildren. Many
families who attend our family programs started coming when the parents were
children. On the otherhand many adults who have never been to the museum come because
of a neighbor's child or relative. Kids are our best PR. We are just starting
to try to target adult audiences for some activities such as an American
History Book Club and Native American weaving. I am having trouble getting
interest in the adult programs. Any ideas? Annmarie

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