ICOM's 2019 Museum Definition: What You Need To Know
Let's dive into the official museum definition according to the International Council of Museums (ICOM) in 2019. Understanding museum definitions is super important, guys, because it shapes how we perceive these awesome institutions and their role in society. ICOM, being the big cheese in the museum world, periodically updates its definition to reflect the evolving landscape of cultural heritage and societal expectations. The 2019 definition was a pretty big deal because it aimed to be more inclusive and forward-thinking. So, what exactly does it say? Well, according to ICOM, a museum is defined as “A museum is a not-for-profit, permanent institution in the service of society that researches, collects, conserves, interprets and exhibits tangible and intangible heritage. Open to the public, accessible and inclusive, museums foster diversity and sustainability. They operate and communicate ethically and professionally, and with the participation of communities, offering varied experiences for education, enjoyment, reflection and knowledge sharing.” This definition emphasizes several key aspects. First, it highlights the not-for-profit nature of museums, underlining their commitment to serving the public rather than generating profit. Then, it stresses the importance of research, collection, conservation, interpretation, and exhibition – the core functions that museums have traditionally performed. The inclusion of both tangible and intangible heritage is significant, acknowledging the importance of preserving not just physical objects but also cultural traditions, knowledge, and skills. The emphasis on accessibility and inclusivity is another crucial aspect, reflecting the growing recognition that museums should be open and welcoming to all members of society, regardless of their background or abilities. Furthermore, the definition underscores the role of museums in fostering diversity and sustainability, highlighting their potential to contribute to broader social and environmental goals. Finally, it emphasizes the importance of ethical and professional conduct, as well as community participation, ensuring that museums operate in a responsible and accountable manner.
Breaking Down the ICOM 2019 Definition: Key Elements
When we talk about ICOM museum standards, it's essential to break down the key elements of the 2019 definition to truly grasp its significance. So, let's dissect this thing piece by piece, shall we? First off, the definition clearly states that a museum is a "not-for-profit, permanent institution in the service of society." This means that museums aren't just businesses trying to make a buck; they're dedicated to the public good. They're in it for the long haul, committed to preserving and sharing knowledge for generations to come. Then comes the core functions: researching, collecting, conserving, interpreting, and exhibiting. These are the bread and butter of museum work. Museums delve deep into their collections, uncovering new insights and stories. They carefully collect artifacts and specimens, preserving them for future study and appreciation. Conservation is key to ensuring that these treasures last. Museums also interpret their collections, making them accessible and engaging for visitors. And, of course, they exhibit these collections, showcasing them to the world. But here's where it gets interesting: the definition explicitly includes both "tangible and intangible heritage." This is a big deal because it recognizes that culture isn't just about physical objects; it's also about traditions, stories, and knowledge. Museums are now tasked with preserving and celebrating these intangible aspects of our shared heritage. Accessibility and inclusivity are also front and center. The definition states that museums should be "open to the public, accessible and inclusive." This means that museums need to actively work to remove barriers that might prevent people from visiting or participating. They need to be welcoming to people of all backgrounds and abilities. And let's not forget about diversity and sustainability. Museums are now expected to foster diversity and promote sustainability in all aspects of their operations. This could mean showcasing diverse perspectives in their exhibitions, reducing their environmental impact, or supporting local communities. Finally, the definition emphasizes the importance of ethical and professional conduct, as well as community participation. Museums need to operate with integrity and transparency, and they need to involve communities in their work.
Why the ICOM 2019 Definition Matters
Understanding museum definition significance is crucial. Guys, why does this definition even matter? Well, it's not just some academic exercise; it has real-world implications for museums around the globe. The ICOM definition serves as a benchmark for what a museum should be. It sets the standard for ethical and professional conduct, as well as for the core functions that museums perform. It helps to guide museum policy and practice, ensuring that museums are serving their communities in the best possible way. The definition also has implications for funding and recognition. Many funding bodies and government agencies use the ICOM definition to determine which institutions are eligible for support. Being recognized as a museum according to the ICOM definition can also enhance a museum's reputation and credibility. But perhaps most importantly, the ICOM definition shapes how we think about museums and their role in society. It reminds us that museums are not just repositories of old stuff; they are dynamic institutions that play a vital role in education, cultural preservation, and community engagement. By emphasizing accessibility, inclusivity, diversity, and sustainability, the ICOM definition challenges museums to be more relevant and responsive to the needs of their communities. It encourages them to be active participants in shaping a better future. So, the next time you visit a museum, take a moment to think about the ICOM definition and how it informs the museum's mission and activities. You might be surprised at how much it influences the way the museum operates and the impact it has on the community.
Challenges and Controversies Surrounding the Definition
While the ICOM 2019 definition aimed to be more inclusive and forward-thinking, it wasn't without its challenges and controversies. Navigating museum definition challenges can be tricky. In fact, the process of revising the definition was quite contentious, with different factions within ICOM advocating for different approaches. One of the main points of contention was the inclusion of the concept of “democratisation” and “human dignity.” Some members felt that these terms were too politically charged and didn't accurately reflect the core functions of a museum. Others argued that these concepts were essential for ensuring that museums are serving the needs of all members of society, particularly those who have been marginalized or excluded. Another challenge was finding a definition that could be universally applied to all types of museums, from small local history museums to large national institutions. Museums vary widely in their size, scope, and resources, and it can be difficult to create a definition that is relevant to all of them. There were also concerns about the potential impact of the definition on museum accreditation and funding. Some museum professionals worried that the new definition would be too difficult or costly to implement, potentially leading to the closure of smaller or less well-resourced museums. Despite these challenges, ICOM ultimately adopted the 2019 definition after a lengthy and often heated debate. However, the controversies surrounding the definition highlight the ongoing tensions within the museum world and the challenges of defining such a complex and multifaceted institution.
The Future of Museum Definitions
What does the future hold for evolving museum definitions? As society continues to change, so too will our understanding of what a museum is and what it should do. The ICOM definition is not set in stone; it will likely be revised again in the future to reflect new developments and challenges. One trend that is likely to shape future museum definitions is the increasing emphasis on digital technology. Museums are increasingly using digital tools to enhance their exhibitions, engage with audiences, and preserve their collections. Future definitions may need to address the role of digital technology in museum work and the ethical considerations that come with it. Another trend is the growing recognition of the importance of community engagement. Museums are increasingly working in partnership with communities to co-create exhibitions, programs, and initiatives. Future definitions may need to emphasize the importance of community participation and the need for museums to be responsive to the needs of their communities. Sustainability will also likely be a key consideration in future museum definitions. As the world faces increasing environmental challenges, museums will need to play a role in promoting sustainability and reducing their environmental impact. Future definitions may need to address the environmental responsibilities of museums and the need for them to be models of sustainable practice. Ultimately, the future of museum definitions will depend on the ongoing dialogue between museum professionals, policymakers, and the public. By working together, we can ensure that museums continue to be relevant, accessible, and valuable institutions that serve the needs of society.
Practical Implications for Museum Professionals
So, you're a museum professional? Let's talk about the practical museum implications of the ICOM 2019 definition. This isn't just some abstract concept; it affects your day-to-day work. The definition emphasizes the importance of ethical and professional conduct. This means that you need to adhere to the highest standards of integrity and transparency in all aspects of your work. You need to be accountable for your actions and decisions, and you need to be committed to serving the public interest. The definition also highlights the core functions of museums: researching, collecting, conserving, interpreting, and exhibiting. As a museum professional, you need to be skilled in these areas and committed to continuously improving your knowledge and skills. You need to be able to conduct thorough research, carefully collect and preserve artifacts, create engaging and informative exhibitions, and interpret your collections in a way that is accessible to a wide audience. Accessibility and inclusivity are also key considerations. You need to ensure that your museum is welcoming to people of all backgrounds and abilities. This means removing physical barriers, providing accommodations for people with disabilities, and creating exhibitions and programs that are relevant to diverse communities. Diversity and sustainability are also important. You need to be aware of the social and environmental impact of your work and committed to promoting diversity and sustainability in all aspects of your operations. This could mean showcasing diverse perspectives in your exhibitions, reducing your museum's environmental footprint, or supporting local communities. Finally, the definition emphasizes the importance of community participation. You need to involve communities in your work, seeking their input and feedback and working in partnership with them to create exhibitions and programs that are relevant to their needs and interests. By embracing the principles of the ICOM 2019 definition, you can help to ensure that your museum is a valuable asset to the community and a force for positive change in the world.
Conclusion: Embracing the Evolving Definition
In conclusion, embracing museum definition evolution is key. The ICOM 2019 definition of a museum is a significant milestone in the history of museum thought. While it has faced challenges and controversies, it represents a genuine effort to create a more inclusive, forward-thinking, and relevant definition of what a museum should be. By emphasizing the importance of ethical conduct, community engagement, accessibility, diversity, and sustainability, the definition challenges museums to be more than just repositories of old stuff; it encourages them to be dynamic institutions that play a vital role in shaping a better future. As society continues to evolve, so too will our understanding of what a museum is and what it should do. The ICOM definition is not the final word on the subject, but it provides a valuable framework for thinking about the role of museums in the 21st century. By embracing the principles of the ICOM 2019 definition, museum professionals can help to ensure that their institutions remain relevant, accessible, and valuable assets to their communities for generations to come.
