Centering the Museum: Writings for the Post-Covid Age

In difficult times, Elaine Heumann Gurians book Centering the Museum urges the museum sector to assist visitors in experiencing their common humanity and finding social applications for public spaces. It offers suggestions for inclusive activities by combining sociological theory with practical decision-making tactics, and it will be a valuable resource for emerging museum leaders and academics studying cultural administration.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 294 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Centering the Museum is a groundbreaking book that delves into the profound impact of museums on society, drawing on the invaluable expertise of Elaine Heumann Gurians, a renowned museum professional with over fifty years of experience. In these challenging times, the book calls upon the museum profession to play a pivotal role in helping visitors connect with their shared humanity and discover meaningful social applications for public buildings. By fostering a sense of inclusivity and accessibility, museums can become more central and valuable to individuals from all walks of life.

This new volume, following the successful format of Elaine Heumann Gurians's earlier work, Civilizing the Museum, includes fresh material specifically tailored for a re-emergent era and engaging public lectures that were not included in the previous edition. The book is organized into six distinct content clusters, featuring over twenty insightful essays, which identify numerous small yet impactful ways museums can become more welcoming to diverse audiences.

Drawing on her extensive background as a deputy director, senior advisor to high-profile government museums, lecturer, and teacher across the globe, the author offers practical recommendations for inclusive actions by seamlessly integrating sociological insights with decision-making strategies. Elaine's writing is reflective, providing valuable insights to heritage students and professionals seeking to advance their careers and organizations in a more equitable and successful manner.

Centering the Museum serves as an essential companion volume to Civilizing the Museum, providing valuable support for emerging museum leaders. It will be of particular interest to academics and students engaged in the study of cultural administration, as well as museum and heritage practitioners working across the world. By centering the museum experience around the human connection and societal relevance, this book offers a roadmap for creating a more inclusive and impactful cultural landscape.

Weight: 494g
Dimension: 155 x 234 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367560447