Browse PublicationsThe Convivial Museum

In a time of challenge, what can museum professionals do to assure that museums continue to fulfill their promise as essential public institutions? This richly illustrated book offers reflections about key dimensions of a defining quality of vibrant public places, which the authors call “conviviality”—a welcoming spirit, orientation to the community, comfort, opportunities for social engagement, and places for healing and renewal. The book focuses on the physical character of museums, which, the authors argue—while often overlooked in the press of exhibition openings and daily program schedules—has profound effects on the quality of a museum experience.

Intended for all who work in and with museums, The Convivial Museum offers reminders about practices within the reach of all that nurture and support conviviality.

Coauthors Kathleen McLean and Wendy Pollock draw on decades of experience in and with museums—and the wisdom of others who care deeply about the potential of dynamic public places and the role museums can play in bringing people together.

The Convivial Museum complements an earlier, companion book, Visitor Voices in Museum Exhibitions, which advocated for active individual and community involvement in creating museum exhibitions and programs. For all those who share a vision of the broad social role of museums, the book comes as a timely reminder of the simple but deeply important practices that make museums critical components of civic life.

Designed for ease of browsing, the book will be compelling to return to periodically for reminders of basic principles most museum professionals know but too often forget.

Publication was supported in part by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

200 pages, 138 images, references

#158 $17 for ASTC members; $22 for nonmembers. Shipping and handling extra.


TWO GREAT BOOKS, ONE GREAT PRICE! Package of The Convivial Museum and the companion volume, Visitor Voices in Museum Exhibitions, at a discounted price.
#159
ASTC Members: $33
Nonmembers: $41

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