In its November 2003 statement identifying strategic issues for the field, the AAM Board asserted that “The majority of museums in the United States are small institutions, many of them enjoying close ties with their communities.  More needs to be done to understand and meet the special needs of this vital segment of the museum field.”

Later that month, AAM brought together representatives of 18 museum service organizations and funding agencies to discuss the needs of small museums.  Among the priorities identified are researching the needs of small museums and existing resources to meet those needs; creating an online clearinghouse to help small museums find products, services, funding, professional education, and other resources; increasing the capacity of museum service organizations to address the needs of small museums; and advocating on behalf of small museums to foundations and government funding agencies. 

Small Museums Resources

TheAAM Bookstorehas many titles of interest to small museums.

AAM Information CenterSample Documents
The Information Center offers customized reference services, including sample documents from small museums, to AAM member museums.  Museums can expect a reply within 48 hours. Member museums may contact the Information Center at infocenter@aam-us.org or 202-289-1818.

Standing Professional Committee for Small Museum Administrators (SMAC)
Advocates for museums with annual budgets under $350,000, raises awareness about the significant role of small museums, and provides access to resources that enhance the quality of small museum operations and services.

Small Museum Day at AAM’s Annual Meeting
Developed in collaboration with AAM’s Small Museum Administrators Committee, planned activities include concurrent sessions on a wide variety of topics focusing on small museums and other networking opportunities.

Small Museums and Accreditation
“Small Museums and Accreditation: Sample Documents from Small Accredited Museums” is a compact disc produced by the Accreditation Program and AAM’s Small Museum Administrator’s Standing Professional Committee.  The CD provides a comprehensive picture of eight small museums with annual operating expenses in the range of $100,000 to $270,000.  It includes self-studies, Visiting Committee reports, and letters from the Accreditation Commission, as well as tips from the museum directors and a PowerPoint presentation on the basics of accreditation.

Small Museums and MAP
Beginning with the February 15, 2006 application deadline, the Museum Assessment Program (MAP) will be free to museums with budgets under $125,000.  Participation is on a first-come, first-served basis.