Our Activities
A visitor tries out 'Build a Bridge'
in the Science Musuems' Launch Pad gallery
NMDC is currently focusing on the following issues:
Promoting Philanthropy
NMDC is seeking policy changes to encourage donations of objects to UK collections.
Digitisation
Jane Finnis, Director of Culture 24, met NMDC members on 14 March 2008 and outlined the potential, options and impetus for the museums sector for developing a digital offer.
Identity
An expert roundtable was hosted by NMDC in association with the ippr to explore Identity, diversity and citizenship: Lessons for our national museums. NMDC is a partner in an ippr research project looking at the role of museums, heritage and arts policy might play in enabling people to explore and shape notions of identity and belonging.
Learning and Access
NMDC continues to make the case for museum learning to government and over stakeholders, aiming to influence curriculum development and provide evidence of the value of museum learning.
UK Affairs
Developing and articulating the national role of the national museums and partnerships with regional museums and the MLA.
Cultural Diversity
Taking forward recommendations to promote diversity within the collections, staff and audiences of national museums.
Museums & Galleries in Britain: Economic, Social and Creative Impacts
A report by Tony Travers, London School of Economics, examining the contribution and impact of museums.
This report builds on research conducted by Tony Travers and Stephen Glaister, Imperial College, published in 2004: Valuing Museums: Impact and Innovation Among National Museums
International Affairs
Highlighting the international role of the UK's national museums, libraries and archives.
Networking and Benchmarking
NMDC facillitates collaboration and communication between the national museums and related organisations through subject-specialist committees. These include Operations Committee, Human Resources Forum, Marketing Group, PR Group and a new Collections Management Group.
Previous Projects
Civil Renewal
A project with IPPR exploring the role culture can play in developing social capital, bridging diverse cultural communities and encouraging active citizenship – especially in poor, disadvantaged communities.
Creative Engagement
Illustrating the many ways in which national museums inspire creativity and innovation.
Too Much Stuff?
In October 2003 NMDC published a discussion paper on the issue of disposal from museums.
Loans Between National and Non-National Museums: News Standards and Practical Guidelines
Produced by a working party from across the museum sector and published in September 2003.
Spoliation of Works of Art during the Nazi period
In 1998, NMDC members agreed a statement of principles and actions regarding works of art looted during the Nazi era. The Museums, Libraries and Archives Council now leads on this issue in the UK and maintains and up-to-date database of works with uncertain provenance between 1933-1945.