I know it's just a cartoon, but did anyone see Lisa Simpson on the
Simpsons this week? She handled objects in a case that was unlocked by
the curator of the Springfield Historical Society while he was heating
food in a microwave  - which he brought into the gallery - Lisa then
discovered a hidden original document that told the truth about the
founder of the town. She later was about to uncover the truth in front of
the whole town during a parade, and decided not to because the truth was
negative and unpatriotic. She let the town people celebrate in ignorance.
The truth was never revealed.
I think this example, even if it is based on the fantasy of an animated TV
show, relates to the question of who are we working for? This show made
the Historical Society look very unprofessional. Too bad museums in the
media seem to be looking foolish! If this is a reflection on how the
public really does see the museum world, is there any way to change that
image?

Becky
San Francisco