American Museum Association

American Museum Association. The American Museum Association, also known as the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), is a non-profit organization that aims to promote and support museums in the United States. The organization works closely with Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of Natural History, and The Metropolitan Museum of Art to advance the field of museum studies. The AAM is also affiliated with the International Council of Museums (ICOM) and the American Association of State and Local History.

● History

The American Museum Association was founded in 1906 by a group of museum professionals, including George Brown Goode and William Temple Hornaday, with the goal of promoting and supporting museums in the United States. The organization has a long history of collaboration with other museum associations, such as the Association of Art Museum Directors and the American Association of Museums. The AAM has also worked with government agencies, including the National Endowment for the Arts and the Institute of Museum and Library Services, to support museum development and cultural heritage preservation. The organization has been led by notable figures, including John E. Buchanan Jr. and Ford W. Bell, who have played a significant role in shaping the museum field.

● Mission_and_Objectives

The American Museum Association's mission is to promote and support museums in their efforts to serve and engage their communities. The organization's objectives include advancing the field of museum studies, promoting excellence in museum practice, and supporting museum professionals in their work. The AAM works closely with museum associations, such as the Association of Children's Museums and the American Association for State and Local History, to achieve its objectives. The organization also collaborates with cultural institutions, including the Library of Congress and the National Archives and Records Administration, to promote cultural heritage preservation and education.

● Membership_and_Programs

The American Museum Association has a diverse membership that includes museums of all types and sizes, as well as museum professionals and cultural institutions. The organization offers a range of programs and services, including professional development opportunities, networking events, and advocacy efforts. The AAM also provides resources and support for museum accreditation and certification programs, such as the American Association for Museum Volunteers and the National Association for Museum Exhibition. The organization has partnerships with universities and research institutions, including Harvard University and the University of Pennsylvania, to support museum research and innovation.

● Accreditation_and_Certification

The American Museum Association offers a range of accreditation and certification programs for museums and museum professionals. The organization's accreditation program is designed to recognize excellence in museum practice and promote high standards in museum operations. The AAM also offers certification programs for museum professionals, including the Certified Museum Professional (CMP) program. The organization works closely with accreditation agencies, such as the American Association of Museums and the National Commission on Accreditation, to ensure that its accreditation and certification programs meet the highest standards. The AAM is also affiliated with the International Council on Monuments and Sites and the World Heritage Centre.

● Annual_Meeting_and_Conference

The American Museum Association hosts an annual meeting and conference that brings together museum professionals and cultural institutions from around the world. The conference features keynote speakers, workshops, and networking events, and provides opportunities for professional development and collaboration. The AAM has hosted its annual meeting in various cities, including Washington, D.C., New York City, and Los Angeles. The organization has also partnered with conferences and events, such as the Museum Computer Network and the American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works, to support museum innovation and technology.

● Publications_and_Resources

The American Museum Association publishes a range of publications and resources for museum professionals and cultural institutions. The organization's publications include the Museum magazine, the AAM Newsletter, and the Museum Standards and Best Practices guide. The AAM also provides resources and support for museum development, including grants and funding opportunities, professional development programs, and advocacy efforts. The organization has partnerships with publishers, including Routledge and Rowman & Littlefield, to support museum research and publication. The AAM is also affiliated with the National Museum of American History and the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Category:American Museum Association