The knowledge museums hold about their collections is as valuable as the objects themselves. Active research to create, gather and share information about them can contribute to the effective management of collections and provide new opportunities for people to be inspired by them.
SMC supports collections research activity in museums, providing access to professional advice, information and resources.
SMC Discussion Paper: Collections-based Knowledge Creation in Museums
Earlier this year SMC worked with a consultant to undertake a scoping exercise and establish the current extent, scope and value placed on all types of collections-based knowledge creation in member museums. No matter how large or small your organisation, we wanted to hear from you why your museum undertakes collections-based study or research, who actually does the work and what happens to the information or knowledge you create.
Over 30 responses were gratefully received and analysed, and key findings are currently being prepared for inclusion in a discussion paper which it is hoped will stimulate further debate and research activity within Scottish museums. This paper will soon be available on the SMC website and will be sent to subject specific networks and museum forums around the country.
SMC Collections Development Manager Gillian Findlay would welcome any comments or further information you may have on this topic, or the research bursaries scheme, along with evidence of how collections research is handled and prioritised in your museum.
T: 0131 550 4100
E: [email protected]
Arts and Humanities Research Council
AHRC is currently developing a Museums and Galleries Research Programme, an integrated strategy for supporting research in UK museums, galleries, libraries and archives. For more information, visit: http://www.ahrc.ac.uk/apply/research/museums_galleries_research_programme.asp
