Museum libraries reflect and effect change not only within the field of art librarianship but also in conjunction with shifting trends in curatorial practice, conservation methods and interests, and advancement and development priorities, all while serving a vital compliment to academic and public institutions. Museum librarians must maintain visions that are anticipatory and change-oriented while simultaneously advocating for the value of their resources on site, in their organizations, and increasingly off site, engaging wider academic and public communities.
In this panel, speakers will present case studies on how their libraries have adapted and thrived in circumstances beyond their control and have responded to changing patron needs while advocating for and educating users in best practices in art historical research and curatorial practice. Speakers will focus on how they optimize their work as they respond to large physical moves, how they activate and educate users in the value of off-site materials, and how small investments in facilities and staffing has had a positive impact on user relations and programming.
Learning Objective- Attendees will learn about facilities in other museums that have succeeded in meeting the shifting demands and expectations of their constituents.
