ASC Luther Bean Museum accepted in 2007 Museum Assessment Program (08-09-07)
Kat Olance stands by front entrance of LBM.
The Adams State College Luther Bean Museum will participate in the 2007 Museum Assessment Program - Collections Management Assessment by the American Association of Museums (AAM).
"By applying to the AAM, we have the opportunity to examine the museum's operation with the assistance and guidance of a non-profit organization that supports the work of museums nationwide," Kat Olance, interim director of Luther Bean Museum, said.
An AAM surveyor will review Luther Bean Museum with the aid of a self-evaluation the museum's assessment team will develop starting Aug. 2007. The surveyor will conduct an on-site visit next spring.
Since its opening in 1975, the museum has been a repository for Adams State's and the San Luis Valley's history through donations of artifacts, art, and antiques. Documentation and memorabilia on the college's founder and former Colorado governor Billy Adams, and historian, Dr. Luther Bean, are also in the museum's collection.
"In the past few years the museum has hosted exhibits, poetry and book readings by local and visiting authors, book signings, and receptions," Olance said. "The campus has celebrated Founder's Day and Luther Bean Day in the museum. We have been fortunate to have oral history recordings from retired Adams State employees and alumni. Dr. Gordon Childs', A.J. Hall's, Hazel Petty's, and Glen Bean's extensive knowledge of the campus is now recorded for prosperity."
According to Olance the museum staff has researched and cataloged Adams State history through various archives housed in the museum and the Nielsen Library. "These efforts have produced the 'This Day in ASC History' web postings and the creation of scrapbooks featuring Dr. Luther Bean, Billy Adams, and Dr. John Marvel," she said.
Olance said she believes the assessment will aid the museum in continuing its mission, which is, "In partnership with the college and valley communities, the Luther E. Bean Museum seeks to preserve, enhance, and promote the study of the diverse culture and history of the San Luis Valley and Adams State College."
The Luther Bean Museum advisory board will assess the program over the next year. Advisory board members include Tawney Becker, director of the Alamosa Uptown & River Association; Dr. Richard Goddard, assistant professor of history; Mary Hoffman, executive director for Community Partnerships; Linda Pacheco-Demski, support coordinator/Read ELA Grant; Gene Schilling, professor of art, and Olance.
"Next year we plan on applying for the AAM's Institutional Assessment program which will allow us to investigate how the museum can continue to improve its role to serve the education and cultural needs of the college and surrounding community," Olance said.
