Gary, Thank you for your efforts in tackling a difficult and sometimes emotional issue. I for one applaud your efforts and agree that the definitions has to be broadened. It should also get away from the current ICOM definition with an add on list of other less pure institutions that are deemed to qualify as museums for whatever reason. What is the primary reason behind coming up with a definition? Is it to limit or expand membership in ICOM? Is it to "guarantee" the validity of an institution as a museum so that it might qualify for funding? The reason for this question is that the purpose should shape the outcome; a bit of the "form follows function" approach. I would argue that: A collection is not a given. Typically, science centres, some of which use museum in their name, do not typically hold collections. Similarly, childrens' museums and virtual museums do not hold collection. If a "museum" held one object would it be a collection or do we need to have a minimum number? Research is not a given. Many local museums, smaller museums, etc. do not have the funds or qualified staff to undertake research but are trying their best to preserve objects. Nonprofit is not a given. Some museums/science centres, etc., have to generate revenue. They could be a public institution that is mandated to show a profit or close. Public (as opposed to Private) is not a given. Private museums, some open to the public, do exist. In my view, museums should exist to serve the public, not to serve a collection. That being said, if the museum was closed to the public but still had a collection and did research would it still be a museum? Reluctantly, I would have to respond "yes" but it would be a museum without real meaning or purpose. I have argued these points before as a member of the Canadian Museum Association, Canadian Association of Science Centres, and CIMUSET. Thus far I have convinced neither science centre nor museum advocates to broaden their perspective. Good luck. Paul Donahue President, CIMUSET Gary Edson <[log in to unmask] To: [log in to unmask] DU> cc: Sent by: Subject: Definition of a Museum International Council of Museums Discussion List <[log in to unmask] .LSOFT.COM> 07/10/2003 10:50 AM Please respond to International Council of Museums Discussion List Colleagues: The following is one of the definition that has been suggested. What are your thoughts about this idea. Does it adequately describe a "museum," or is it too broad, too limiting, too inclusive, or too exclusive? A MUSEUM IS AN EDUCATIONAL ORGANIZATION THAT SERVES THE PUBLIC BY INTERPRETING SCIENTIFIC, CULTURAL AND/OR NATURAL HERITAGE THROUGH THE USE OF A PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT AND OFTEN OBJECTS. MUSEUMS THAT HOLD COLLECTIONS CARE FOR THEM AS A PUBLIC TRUST AND PRESERVE THEM FOR THE FUTURE. Gary Edson - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Change ICOM-L subscription options, unsubscribe, and search the archives at: http://home.ease.lsoft.com/archives/icom-l.html - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Change ICOM-L subscription options, unsubscribe, and search the archives at: http://home.ease.lsoft.com/archives/icom-l.html