Museums

The museum industry consists of institutions that are principally engaged in the conservation and presentation of objects that possess certain artistic, cultural, historical, and/or educational value. These organizations may also include contemporary art galleries. Museums prepare and display both temporary and permanent exhibits for members and the general population to view. They are considered to be accurate and trusted sources of legitimate information pertaining to art, culture and history.

Museums are typically open to the general population, and may or may not charge entrance fees. Many of the larger museums are established in major cities throughout the world, while local museums are located in smaller cities, towns and even the countryside. Often museums will focus on the host region’s culture most specifically, but at times they may share exhibits with other host museums throughout the world. These special exhibits are temporary, and the artifacts and objects in the shared exhibit will only be available to the host museum for a limited period of time before they are transported back to their home museum.

Although the majority of museums will not permit physical contact with the displayed artifacts, in recent years museums have included exhibitions that encourage contact and are more interactive in design, including exhibitions and activities targeted to children. The hands-on exhibits allow the public to participate in the displays, which may include having the opportunity to make choices and engage in different activities that may alter the experience for different people. Virtual exhibits are also increasing in number due to the accessibility of internet technology.