Hey guys! Ever wondered what exactly makes a museum a museum? It sounds like a simple question, but the folks over at the International Council of Museums (ICOM) have been working hard to nail down a definition that really captures what these amazing institutions are all about. The definition of a museum by ICOM is more than just words; it's a guiding principle that shapes how museums operate, what they collect, and how they serve their communities. So, let's break down the ICOM museum definition from 2019 and see what it means for us.

Understanding the ICOM Museum Definition

Let's dive deep into the ICOM museum definition! This definition isn't just a bunch of fancy words; it's a comprehensive guide that helps museums worldwide understand their role and responsibilities. In 2019, ICOM updated its definition to reflect the evolving role of museums in society. According to ICOM, a museum is defined as "A museum is a non-profit, permanent institution in the service of society and its development, open to the public, which acquires, conserves, researches, communicates and exhibits the tangible and intangible heritage of humanity and its environment for the purposes of education, study and enjoyment." That's quite a mouthful, right? Let's dissect it to truly understand what it means.

First off, a museum is a non-profit organization. This means that museums aren't in it for the money. Their primary goal isn't to make a profit, but rather to serve the public and preserve cultural heritage. This non-profit status allows museums to focus on their mission without the pressure of generating revenue for shareholders. Museums often rely on grants, donations, and public funding to operate, ensuring that their focus remains on education, preservation, and community engagement.

Next, it's a permanent institution. Museums aren't pop-up shops or temporary exhibits. They're here for the long haul, committed to preserving and showcasing cultural heritage for generations to come. This permanence ensures stability and allows museums to develop long-term strategies for collection management, research, and community outreach. Being a permanent fixture also means that museums have a responsibility to adapt and evolve with the times, remaining relevant and engaging for future audiences.

The phrase "in the service of society and its development" highlights the vital role museums play in our communities. Museums aren't just places to look at old stuff; they're active participants in shaping society. They contribute to education, promote cultural understanding, and foster critical thinking. By engaging with their communities, museums help to create a more informed, connected, and culturally rich society. Museums also play a crucial role in promoting social inclusion and diversity, ensuring that all voices are represented and heard.

Being "open to the public" is a key aspect of the definition. Museums are for everyone, regardless of their background or social status. This accessibility ensures that everyone has the opportunity to learn about and appreciate cultural heritage. Museums often offer free admission days, reduced rates, and outreach programs to make their collections and resources available to as many people as possible. They also strive to create inclusive and welcoming environments for visitors of all abilities and backgrounds.

Museums "acquire, conserve, researches, communicates and exhibits the tangible and intangible heritage of humanity and its environment." This is the core of what museums do. They collect and preserve artifacts, conduct research, share their knowledge, and put on exhibitions. This multifaceted approach ensures that cultural heritage is not only preserved but also understood and appreciated. The tangible heritage includes physical objects such as artifacts, artworks, and historical documents, while intangible heritage encompasses traditions, oral histories, and performing arts. Museums play a vital role in safeguarding both types of heritage for future generations.

Finally, all of this is done "for the purposes of education, study and enjoyment." Museums are places of learning, exploration, and fun. They offer a wide range of programs and activities designed to engage visitors of all ages and interests. Whether it's a guided tour, a hands-on workshop, or a special exhibition, museums provide opportunities for people to learn, grow, and connect with the world around them. Museums also serve as valuable resources for researchers and scholars, providing access to collections and expertise that can advance knowledge and understanding.

The Key Components of the Definition

Okay, so we've gone through the whole definition. But what are the key takeaways? What are the elements that truly define a museum according to ICOM? Let's break it down into easily digestible points, shall we? Think of it as a checklist for what makes a museum, well, a museum.

• Non-Profit and Permanent: This highlights the museum's commitment to public service rather than financial gain and its long-term dedication to preserving cultural heritage. It's all about being there for the community, not just for a quick buck.
• Service to Society: Museums actively contribute to societal development by promoting education, cultural understanding, and critical thinking. They're not just passive repositories of artifacts; they're active agents of change.
• Open to the Public: Accessibility is key. Museums should be welcoming and inclusive spaces for everyone, regardless of their background or social status. No velvet ropes or exclusive memberships here – everyone's invited!
• Acquisition, Conservation, Research, Communication, and Exhibition: These are the core functions of a museum. They collect and preserve artifacts, conduct research, share their knowledge, and put on exhibitions. It's a holistic approach to preserving and promoting cultural heritage.
• Tangible and Intangible Heritage: Museums preserve both physical objects and cultural traditions, ensuring that all aspects of our shared heritage are protected. It's about preserving the stories and the artifacts that tell those stories.
• Education, Study, and Enjoyment: Museums provide opportunities for people to learn, explore, and have fun. They're not just stuffy institutions; they're dynamic spaces for engagement and discovery.

Why This Definition Matters

So, why does this definition even matter? Why did ICOM bother to create it and why should we care? Well, this definition is super important for a bunch of reasons. Seriously, it's not just some academic exercise; it has real-world implications for museums and the communities they serve.

• Guidance for Museums: The definition provides a clear framework for museums to operate within. It helps them understand their mission, set priorities, and make decisions about collection management, exhibitions, and programming. It's like a compass, guiding museums on their journey to preserve and promote cultural heritage.
• Professional Standards: The definition sets a benchmark for professional standards in the museum field. It helps to ensure that museums are operating ethically and responsibly. It also provides a basis for evaluating museum performance and identifying areas for improvement.
• Advocacy and Funding: The definition is used by ICOM and other organizations to advocate for museums and secure funding for their activities. It helps to demonstrate the value of museums to society and to justify public investment in their work. When museums can clearly articulate their role and impact, it's easier to garner support from policymakers, donors, and the community.
• Combating Illicit Trafficking: By clearly defining what a museum is, the definition helps to combat the illicit trafficking of cultural property. It makes it easier to identify fake museums and to prevent them from being used to launder stolen artifacts. Protecting cultural heritage from theft and illegal trade is a crucial part of ICOM's mission, and the museum definition plays a key role in this effort.
• Promoting Ethical Practices: The definition promotes ethical practices in the museum field, such as transparency, accountability, and respect for cultural heritage. It encourages museums to operate in a way that is consistent with their mission and values. Ethical practices are essential for maintaining public trust and ensuring the long-term sustainability of museums.

The Definition's Impact on Museums

Okay, so we know what the definition is and why it matters. But how does it actually affect museums in their day-to-day operations? How does it shape what they do and how they do it? Let's take a look at some concrete examples of the definition's impact on museums.

• Collection Management: The definition guides museums in their acquisition and deaccessioning policies. It encourages them to collect objects that are relevant to their mission and to dispose of objects that are no longer needed or that cannot be properly cared for. This ensures that museum collections are focused, well-maintained, and accessible to researchers and the public.
• Exhibition Development: The definition influences the way museums develop and present exhibitions. It encourages them to create exhibitions that are educational, engaging, and accessible to a wide range of audiences. It also promotes the use of inclusive and participatory exhibition techniques that involve visitors in the interpretation of cultural heritage.
• Educational Programming: The definition shapes the educational programs that museums offer. It encourages them to develop programs that are aligned with their mission and that meet the needs of their communities. It also promotes the use of innovative and interactive teaching methods that engage learners of all ages.
• Community Engagement: The definition guides museums in their community engagement efforts. It encourages them to build relationships with local communities and to involve them in museum activities. It also promotes the use of community-based research methods that document and preserve local cultural heritage.

Conclusion: Museums as Pillars of Society

So, there you have it! The ICOM museum definition from 2019 is a comprehensive and thoughtful guide to what makes a museum a museum. It's not just a set of words; it's a statement of values and a call to action. It reminds us that museums are more than just places to store old stuff; they're vital institutions that play a crucial role in shaping our society. By understanding and embracing this definition, we can help to ensure that museums continue to thrive and serve their communities for generations to come.

Museums, according to the ICOM definition, are essential pillars of society. They preserve our shared heritage, promote education and understanding, and foster a sense of community. They are places of learning, exploration, and inspiration. As we move forward, let's continue to support and celebrate museums and the important work that they do.