At Engaging Places, we are committed to helping museums and historic sites engage audiences and preserve our shared heritage. We are excited to announce the expansion of our services to include collections stewardship documents that align with the ethics and professional standards set by the American Alliance of Museums, as well as governance materials—essential tools that equip their board members with the necessary knowledge and resources to govern effectively and advance the organization’s mission.

These new services are led by Mary van Balgooy, Vice President of Engaging Places. Mary brings extensive experience as an executive director of both local and national nonprofit organizations and as a collections manager for history museums and historical societies of all sizes. Her expertise allows us to offer customized solutions tailored to each organization’s unique needs. Whether you are a newly established nonprofit or a long-standing institution, we will provide the necessary documentation and best practices to support your collections management and equip your leadership team with effective governance tools. Learn more about Mary’s impressive background here.

Services Provided:

Collections Stewardship

• Conduct a preliminary collections assessment, including reviewing essential documents, assessing collections, and evaluating storage conditions, to identify major concerns and issues, and recommend solutions through a comprehensive report
• Develop a comprehensive collections policy covering the organization’s history, acquisition criteria, approval processes, gifts, purchases, deaccessioning, accessibility, care, storage, and loans
• Create a registration procedures manual detailing cataloging processes, including accessioning, conservation, handling, marking, scanning/photographing, and storage practices
• Provide guidance on staff and volunteer training for cataloging, conservation, handling, marking, scanning/photographing, and storage of objects
• Identify potential funding opportunities for collections management, cataloging, care, and conservation

Best Governance Practices

• Develop a governance calendar/chart to help board members and staff be aware of important dates, progress, and deadlines
• Recruitment of board members
• Prepare effective agendas and minutes
• How to facilitate productive meetings
• Clarify the roles and responsibilities of board members and staff
• Develop confidence in financial management
• Assess and review bylaws, policies, and procedures
• Develop a board manual with essential information

What Type of Plan is Best for Your Needs?

We will work closely with you to develop a customized plan that aligns with your organization’s unique needs and goals. Whether you require a comprehensive solution or prefer to select specific services, we offer the flexibility to tailor our approach to best support your museum or historic site.

Pricing

Services start at $5,000 plus travel expenses, with costs increasing based on the size and complexity of your organization.

At Engaging Places, we believe that successful museum management starts with strong plans and reliable tools. Whether your organization is enhancing its collections practices, refining its interpretive strategies, or empowering its board to lead with confidence, we are here to support your goals.

Interested in learning more? Contact us today to discuss how we can assist your museum or historic site! Mary will be attending the Small Museum Association Conference in February and she’d be happy to meet with you.