Susan Tietz wrote: "The administration of our small, local history focused museum is considering setting up a ..friends of.. type membership initiative. We do not charge admission to the museum so our benefits would be limited to things like advance notice on upcoming programs and the thrill of supporting such a worthwhile endeavor." As well as the other great "members only" benefits suggested by several list readers, there may be *attributes of your neighborhood* that you can offer as value added. The more tangibles, the better, so don't overlook the "value added" of your neighbors! Can you steer your members to your neighboring businesses -- and can they steer their customers to you? We encourage institutions to develop mutually beneficial partnerships with close by vendors. This means anyone from nearby antique shops, coffee shops and restaurants, to a theater, a fast-food franchise owner, dry cleaner, copying center or any other business who, like you, is also interested in "audience development" and "increased foot traffic." Once you've met with your neighboring businesses (gather up inside your place?) and brainstormed a bit, you may find wonderful "bundling" opportunities that combine the experience of your institution and a nearby service provider. If you could say "Members get discounts at our neighbors' businesses such as XYZ....", then the membership provides tangible rewards in addition to the feel good benefits. The vendors will be glad you're sending your visitors to them. Nearby vendors can publicize your institution, saying "Museum X Members get a free re-fill" or "The X Museum Membership get you 5% off for orders over $20" etc.." When the membership appeal mentions coupons, discount offers, or simply an announcement that your location features nearby lifestyle conveniences or attributes, the membership is valued even more. Those same businesses may have their own great partnership marketing ideas to help you! Another important feel good aspect to include in your appeals for memberships, demonstrating again the power and benefit of membership, is telling how your institution supports the city's/region's/state's museum, education and/or preservation activities -- whatever language is applicable to your particulars. IOW, in your appeal, explain how a membership in your institution fits into the "bigger picture" and results in a greater sector or regional impact. Information like this strengthens your message. Hope this helps. Good luck! Christopher Brown ATELIER Kathleen Brown http://www.kb-atelier.com/ Alameda, CA ========================================================= Important Subscriber Information: The Museum-L FAQ file is located at http://www.finalchapter.com/museum-l-faq/ . You may obtain detailed information about the listserv commands by sending a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "help" (without the quotes). If you decide to leave Museum-L, please send a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "Signoff Museum-L" (without the quotes).