Discussions and Questions

Join these current discussions

Steep Morale Challenges (4 new messages since last week) Participants note that things really slow down around the holidays allowing staff to catch up on work. How might staff and volunteers be recognized statewide? That's a good question.

Pension Protection Act of 2006 (3 messages) One of the sessions at the 2007 MHS workshops will show how to become comfortable in asking for gifts. Post questions and concerns here to help inform the presenter of your challenges.

Job Announcements

Director of Communications

Minnesota Children's Museum seeks a full time person to lead communications efforts with diverse audiences.

Museum Interpreter

The Wells Fargo History Museum in Minneapolis seeks a part time museum interpreter. Apply under requisition number 3096951. Deadline is November 24, 2006.

Program Manager

The Scott County Historical Society in Shakopee seeks a part-time Program Manager (30 hours per week). Work is performed with technical independence under the general direction of the executive director. This position requires a high degree of public contact. BA (MA preferred) in education, museum studies, history, or related field, and two years experience in a museum, historical society, or equivalent organization. Compensation: salary, sick leave, vacation time, and opportunities for professional development. For more information or to submit resume and references, contact Executive Director, Scott County Historical Society, 235 South Fuller St. Shakopee, MN  55379; or call 952-445-0378.

Curator

The Scott County Historical Society in Shakopee seeks a Curator of Collections, Exhibits and Archives.  The Curator is responsible for the development and implementation of collections management.  Creates and implements exhibit plans that fit the mission and focus of SCHS.  Develops partnerships with appropriate community groups for both in-house and traveling exhibits.  Qualifications include: BA (MA preferred) in museum studies, public history, history, or related field.  Related previous experience.  Knowledge of material culture and experience conducting historical research.  Working knowledge of accepted collections/museum management procedures and object conservation practices.  Experience in exhibit design, artifact handling, and proven ability to present history concepts in an exhibit format.  Ability to oversee several projects at one time.  Effective written and verbal communication skills and the ability to speak in front of an audience.  Ability to work weekends and evenings.  Submit resume and references to: Executive Director, Scott County Historical Society, 235 Fuller St. South, Shakopee, MN  55379.

Local Events

Minnesota Association of Museums Samplers

The popular MAM Sampler programs for December 2006 and January 2007 are now on the MAM website.

News

Anoka County Historical Society reopens exhibit

Vietnam: The Veterans Experience reopened on Saturday November 11, 2006 and will continue until Summer 2007. See the WCCO news segment for more details.

Stearns History Museum opens new exhibit

Elements from the Front Range Contemporary Quilters, opening on December 16, 2006 through January 19, 2007 at Stearns History Museum, is a dazzling survey of some of the most innovative quilt work being done today.

BUS-eum 1 and 2 available for 2007

TRACES Center for History and Culture announces that both of its popular mobile exhibits will be visiting select Midwest states in 2007. Contact Eric Brandt at 651-292-8700 by December 10, 2006 to schedule.

2006 Nonprofit Economy Report

Minnesota Council on Nonprofits released its PDF report on the economy in Minnesota for nonprofits with at least one employee. Approximately 30 percent of Minnesota's nonprofit historical organizations meet that criterion.

Grant Deadlines

Free MAP Grants for Small Museums

Small museums with annual operating expenses of less than $125,000 can now participate in the Museum Assessment Program (MAP) for free. In addition, museums that are only open 90 days per year are now eligible.  Applications are due February 15, 2007.

NAGPRA Grants

NAGPRA Grants are awarded to Indian tribes and museums for financial assistance in carrying out projects associated with NAGPRA compliance. Pre-reviews are due December 29, 2006, with final applications due March 1, 2007.

Upcoming Conferences and Workshops

National Trust Conference seeks proposals for 2007

Interested in sharing your community's preservation story? Now is the time to begin formulating your session proposal.  Submissions are due by Friday, January 12, 2007.