I've just completed representing MTA at all five regional museum association conferences around the country and have learned that now, perhaps more than any time in the past decade, the services of MTA to inspire, inform and educate museum trustees are critically needed.

 

As we approach 2009 with financial uncertainty affecting all museums we need to continue to share best practices, ideas, and success stories which will enable our boards to help our museums grow and operate successfully in spite of hard times.

 

I was encouraged at the sense of optimisim in spite of concern about 2009 budget issues and concern that contributions may decline next year. Most Directors and Trustees I met felt that if a compelling value proposition can be made for their museum in their local community and the board continues to focus on the core mission of the museum, local support will follow.

 

Let's commit to helping each other, sharing successes and solutions, and pledging to keep our museums strong in a difficult time ahead.

 

   Jim McCreight, MTA President

MTA is a Partnering Organization with AAM on the program scheduled for February 23-24, 2009 in Washington, DC. We urge MTA members who can travel to Washington and meet with their congressional representatives to discuss continued federal support for museums to please assist AAM in this program.

AAM is pleased to invite museum professionals and advocates from around the country to Washington, DC on February 23-24, 2009 for Museums Advocacy Day.   During the two-day program, participants will be briefed on AAM's legislative agenda and will learn how to effectively communicate the value of museums to public policy makers.  The second day will consist of visits to Capitol Hill where advocates will make their case to Congress.

In 2009, a new Congress and a new administration will begin working on a wide range of issues, including funding for museum programs and the reauthorization of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS).  We need to make our voices heard!

"There could not be a more critical time for museum advocates to make their case on Capitol Hill," said AAM President Ford Bell.  "With so much at stake, we need to effectively communicate the value of museums to our elected officials."

 

For details check www.aam-us.org.