Ep. 37 — Becoming a Community Museum
In this episode, Amy explores what it really means to be a community museum and why becoming a trusted, welcoming space doesn’t require a huge budget or a blockbuster exhibit. From button trades to community curators, she shares real-life examples of small museums creating big belonging. Amy also unpacks the idea that “every museum is a community museum” and shares the story of one of her favorite museums, the Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum.
This is part of Amy’s Summer Book Club series based on her free ebook, “Getting Visitors Through Your Museum’s Doors: Building Connection in a Noisy World.”
Key Takeaways:
You don’t need a massive budget to create connection. Community-centered museums are built on belonging, not scale.
Every museum can be a community museum. No matter your location or collection, the role you play in people’s lives is what matters most.
Small shifts make a big difference. Inviting local voices, featuring visitors in your content, or partnering with nearby organizations helps people feel ownership of your space.
Belonging leads to loyalty. Visitors who feel seen and included are three times more likely to return—and to recommend your museum to others.
Your museum is more than what’s on display. It's a gathering place, a memory-maker, and a reflection of the community you serve.
Links from the Episode:
Download a free copy of the ebook: www.lovemymuseum.com/ebook
Learn more about the Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum
Listen to the rest of the series: https://www.lovemymuseum.com/podcast/summerbookclub
https://www.lovemymuseum.com/podcast/everybody-knows-your-name
