INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM DAY

In 1977, the International Council of Museums (ICOM), during its 12th General Assembly in Leningrad and Moscow, adopted a resolution designating May 18 as International Museum Day. Delegates to the assembly felt the resolution would bolster recognition for museums and provide a reminder to governments and the general public of the very special role museums play in preserving cultural heritage.

The United States first celebrated the day when President Jimmy Carter designated May 18, 1979 as National Museum Day. Since then, city councils and governors across the country have issued proclamations declaring May 18 as International Museum Day for their communities or states.

Beginning in 1984, annual themes have been suggested to better coordinate international celebrations. The theme for 2005 is "Museums Bridging Cultures." The annual theme is intended to be adaptable to museums of all types and sizes with activities taking place on or around the 18th of May.

AAM and ICOM urge museums across the country to recognize International Museum Day within their institutions. Past museum activities have included coordinating openings of exhibitions with International Museum Day, developing theme related educational programming, hosting behind the scenes tours, extending free passes, and holding drawings for free museum membership.

To further assist museums in coordinating their May 18 efforts, AAM has published the International Museum Day Resource Guide, 2nd Edition as part of its Technical Information Service Professional Practice Series. Reissued in 2001, the guide contains background history, descriptions of successful programs from a variety of museums, activity ideas, and sample press releases and proclamations. This guide is available from the AAM Bookstore at a cost of $10.50 for AAM members and $14.00 for non-members.