The email was essentially a link to the following article. The British Guardian article highlights what could be a serious lack of security at London's cultural institutions during the upcoming 2012 Summer Olympics. The reporter recollects an earlier incident:
During the 1994 winter Olympics in Norway, thieves stole Edvard Munch's painting The Scream from the Oslo National Art Museum and left a note that said: "Thanks for the poor security."
After reading the article, I am shocked that security might not be a priority at these institutions during such a world-wide event. Makes one wonder what "criminal attacks" are happening in South Africa during the World Cup.
Security is a serious issue for museums and other public institutions. Yes, museums are intended for the public. People from the community are encouraged to come inside (or outside) and tour the various spaces to view the numerous objects on display and read the text associated with those objects. In recent years, museums have increasingly become centers for the community.
Yet, museums must maintain security to protect those numerous objects both on display and in storage while keeping visitors safe. Prohibiting visitors from touching and handling objects allow those items to be kept for a long time so that visitors in the future may enjoy them. Also, state and federal laws regarding accessibility (e.g. ADA) regulate building structure as well as exhibit design to a certain extent. So that everyone may enjoy the museum, security deterrents should be low-key but effective. It's a delicate balancing act.
Here at The Petroleum Museum, we have several security deterrents in place. From stanchions to alarms, some work better than others to dissuade visitors from getting too close. Hopefully, though, they do not hinder visitors' enjoyment of their museum-going experience.
What do you think? Leave a comment!
No comments:
Post a Comment