Re: Harassing Museums

["Andy Farke" <andyfarke@hotmail.com>]

<< However, to truly be a public trust institution they need
to allow easier access to interested persons. References are nice, but in
reality, may not be easily obtainable. >>

I went through the whole museum access thing back when I was a high school
student working on my science fair projects (dealing with ceratopsians).
Back then, I found the most effective thing was to just network, network,
network! The more contacts you can make (and the more people who know your
name), the better.

Another thing that made it *much* easier for me was the fact that I was
working with many small, Western museums (the midwest/west seems to be much
more laid back). If I told them who I was, what I was doing, etc., access
*usually* wasn't a problem. And finally, (something which is common
knowledge, but I'll say it anyway), it goes a long way if you're polite and
professional! Be a good guest, and you'll have no problem getting access in
the future. Collections managers have long memories. . .

Best of luck to everyone on getting museum access. . .

Andy
_______________________________
Andrew A. Farke
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, Box P404
501 East St. Joseph Street
Rapid City, SD  57701

605-394-2816

andyfarke@hotmail.com