# data[].attributes.body
La nuova sezione di ICOM Italia dedicata a raccogliere la documentazione nazionale e internazionale relativa alla riapertura dei Musei. In costante aggiornamento!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Indice
La riapertura dei Musei: 18 maggio 2020

L'annuncio della graduale riapertura dei musei a partire dal 18 maggio - data che coincide per ICOM con la Giornata internazionale dei musei - costituisce un importante segnale di fiducia e di speranza nel futuro.

Grazie all'impiego del digitale e al loro spirito creativo i professionisti dei musei sono riusciti a mantenere, in questo periodo di emergenza, il filo dei rapporti con il pubblico fidelizzato e a creare un dialogo nuovo e con una platea più ampia di persone interessate all'arte e alla cultura, con professori e studenti, nel nostro paese e all'estero, ma i nostri musei, siti archeologici, monumenti, parchi storici vivono solo se frequentati, se animati dagli sguardi, dalle emozioni, dai pensieri di chi si immerge, corpo e anima, nella loro atmosfera, nella visione degli oggetti e nelle relazioni temporali e spaziali, ideali e materiali che essi evocano o che gli allestimenti suggeriscono.

Siamo consapevoli delle difficoltà che i musei si troveranno ad affrontare e sappiamo che non tutti saranno in grado di riprendere immediatamente le attività, ma il percorso di rinascita è ormai avviato e a noi tutti cercheremo di sostenerlo con senso di realtà, ma anche con un pizzico di utopia.

A monte bisognerà verificare le effettive disponibilità finanziarie, quantificare le perdite e le possibili entrate future; in qualche caso sarà necessario riesaminare i rapporti con i privati (profit e non profit) nella governance e nella gestione degli istituti, rivedendo funzioni e responsabilità reciproche, ma occorrerà anche studiare nuove modalità di partecipazione delle associazioni del Terzo settore.

La crisi che attraversiamo potrebbe costituire l'occasione per dare vita a forme più salde di cooperazione fra istituti, attraverso la creazione di servizi comuni e la condivisione di strumentazioni e personale qualificato, consentendo così anche ai musei più piccoli quel salto di qualità auspicato e promosso dal Sistema museale nazionale.

La situazione imporrà, ne siamo consapevoli, inevitabili revisioni della spesa, ma ci auguriamo che le amministrazioni responsabili non operino tagli orizzontali, automatici, e siano disposte a verificare invece con i direttori le economie realizzabili, rispettando le esigenze prioritarie e senza sacrificare, in ogni caso, la manutenzione delle strutture e delle collezioni. In ogni istituto sarà indispensabile una riprogrammazione delle modalità di fruizione - in considerazione della domanda reale e delle esigenze organizzative - e l'individuazione delle attività che non è possibile rimandare, cercando, per quanto possibile, di salvaguardare i livelli occupazionali professionisti museali che operano internamente o come collaboratori e che hanno consentito di erogare servizi culturali e sociali rilevanti. Per mantenere in vita i musei, piccoli e grandi, della Penisola e renderli attivi, visibili, utili, efficaci, non sarà sufficiente, insomma, riaprire le loro porte, ma occorrerà discutere a livello nazionale e locale, in via generale e caso per caso, la loro sostenibilità economica e la loro utilità sociale.

Come è stato sottolineato da più parti, e dalla stessa ICOM a livello internazionale, saranno indispensabili notevoli finanziamenti pubblici, europei, nazionali, regionali, in controtendenza con quanto avvenuto negli ultimi anni in tutto il mondo. Per ottenerli, in un periodo in cui sono certamente più pressanti le esigenze legate all'emergenza sanitaria, alla crisi delle imprese, alla disoccupazione, alla riduzione del reddito familiare, i musei (come gli altri istituti e luoghi della cultura) dovranno dimostrare di essere dei riferimenti ineludibili per le comunità di prossimità, non solo custodi di tesori artistici e testimoni di memorie, ma soggetti attivi in grado di incidere sul miglioramento del benessere delle persone (particolarmente importante dopo un periodo di lutti, di preoccupazioni, di solitudine), e di concorrere, in sinergia con le istituzioni scolastiche e accademiche, al la diffusione della cultura e della coscienza civile, e con le autorità locali e l'associazionismo al l'attenuazione delle differenze sociali e alla rigenerazione urbana. Questo consentirà tra l'altro di intercettare energie diverse e promuovere il contributo di tutti, dalle fondazioni di origine bancaria agli amici dei musei, dalle imprese del territorio ai singoli cittadini.

Parallelamente gli istituti dovranno ricercare possibili fonti di entrate per sopperire in parte ai ridotti incassi di bigliettazione, attraverso servizi di informazione e consulenza, creazione di prodotti editoriali e multimediali da proporre sul mercato, progetti speciali per particolari categorie di utenti, utilizzo del marchio, condizioni particolari di gestione degli spazi e delle strutture.

Nel periodo di transizione che ci attende, la cosiddetta Fase 2, non sarà facile superare le difficoltà organizzative necessarie per garantire innanzitutto la salute del personale e dei visitatori. Sulla base delle indicazioni delle autorità sanitarie e amministrative, i musei devono mettere in piedi in tempi relativamente brevi dispositivi e procedure per evitare ogni possibile contagio, limitare i contatti fisici con superfici e oggetti, osservare le distanze di sicurezza, rivedendo le forme di biglietteria e accoglienza, di controllo e assistenza ai visitatori, riorganizzando gli spazi espositivi e programmando la direzione dei flussi e il numero massimo di persone per ciascuna sala. Ulteriore attenzione dovranno dedicare alla frequente pulizia e disinfezione dei servizi igienici, alla fornitura di materiale disinfettante per lavoratori e visitatori, all'areazione frequente degli ambienti, assicurando l'uso di metodi e prodotti già testati che non danneggino il patrimonio museale.

A tal fine, sono state prodotte Linee guida e vademecum, più o meno analitici, per guidare le scelte dei direttori dei musei e ICOM li metterà a disposizione sul proprio sito.

Nel programmare il nuovo assetto organizzativo appare indispensabile la condivisione delle scelte con tutto il personale e la formazione di coloro i quali si trovano a interagire con il pubblico e a governare eventuali situazioni di emergenza. Ugualmente importante è l'informazione puntuale, attraverso il sito web e un pannello all'ingresso del museo, sui comportamenti che il pubblico dovrà osservare scrupolosamente nel corso della visita, e che sarà ricordato gentilmente dal personale in caso di trasgressione. Tale attività sarà organizzata in coerenza con le finalità civiche ed educative del museo.

Non tutti i musei si troveranno ad affrontare nell'immediato gli stessi problemi. Gli istituti che hanno un'affluenza limitata di visitatori incontreranno minori difficoltà nell'assicurare il rispetto delle norme di distanziamento, ma scontano spesso una mancanza di direzione e di personale qualificato. I grandi musei, generalmente molto frequentati, sono ora obbligati ad attivare forme di bigliettazione e pagamento online, prevedere sistemi taglia-fila, tornelli elettronici e controlli capillari dei movimenti delle persone, assicurando che non abbiano un impatto negativo sulla qualità degli spazi storici. Essi sono certamente meglio organizzati e in grado di elaborare piani di valutazione dei rischi, ma soffrono per la drastica riduzione delle presenze legate al turismo internazionale, quei numeri che consentivano loro, finora, una notevole autonomia finanziaria.

Tuttavia, al di là delle differenze legate alla proprietà, alla dimensione, alla tipologia delle collezioni, i professionisti museali si troveranno dopo la pandemia ad affrontare una serie di questioni comuni.

Essi dovranno studiare politiche idonee per ribadire e rafforzare il del museo come servizio pubblico essenziale, ragionando non al chiuso del loro mondo, ma in un contesto più ampio; dovranno mettere in campo risorse creative e ricercare soluzioni innovative per attirare l'interesse dei viaggiatori, dialogare con pubblici diversi e interagire con il mondo della scuola, coinvolgendo esperti di discipline diverse e trasversali (pedagoghi, sociologi, psicologi, economisti, scienziati), ricercando utili alleanze nella società civile e negli amministratori pubblici per concorrere a costruire lo sviluppo sostenibile nei territori e delle città.

Per sostenere questo percorso, ICOM Italia ha aperto dei laboratori di approfondimento e discussione su temi (qui di seguito proposti) che saranno particolarmente rilevanti alla ripresa delle attività. Dopo aver raccolto in merito la documentazione nazionale e internazionale, che metterà a disposizione sul sito, intende aprire un ampio confronto sollecitando sperimentazioni e scambi di esperienze. Anche in collaborazione con altre associazioni museali e con istituzioni pubbliche e private.

L'utilizzazione delle piattaforme digitali, che hanno consentito in questi due mesi, oltre al lavoro agile, l'organizzazione di riunioni e webinar, faciliterà occasioni di formazione e di discussione, cui seguirà la graduale produzione di documenti e raccomandazioni da condividere con la comunità museale.

1. La comunicazione digitale: l'esperienza dei musei al tempo dell'emergenza e le nuove strategie
A porte chiuse i musei hanno continuato la funzione di servizio pubblico attraverso una produzione di iniziative sul web di grande interesse che ICOM ha raccolto in bacheche Padlet e ha avviato un'indagine sulle iniziative di comunicazione digitale messe in atto dai Musie. Ma come in futuro la tecnologia digitale renderà più visibili, accessibili e competitivi i musei migliorando non solo le attività di comunicazione ma anche quelle legate alla conservazione, documentazione e ricerca del patrimonio culturale?

2. Smart working in ambito museale: ripensare le attività on ed off line
L'accelerazione del lavoro agile al tempo dell'emergenza ha dimostrato che anche nel settore museale si è intrapreso un percorso senza ritorno che mette in gioco nuove competenze e professionalità, per espletare attività ordinarie e progettare inedite forme di fruizione e diffusione culturale anche nell'ottica di promuovere e rafforzare quelle attività che non possono prescindere dal rapporto diretto con le collezioni e il pubblico.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Ultimo aggiornamento: 27 aprile 2020 Indice La riapertura dei Musei: editoriale del 27 aprile 2020 I laboratori di approfondimento e discussione di ICOM Italia Le attività di comunicazione a supporto dei Musei durante COVID-19 Gli aggiornamenti normativi La riapertura dei Musei: 18 maggio 2020 L'annuncio della graduale riapertura dei musei a partire dal 18 maggio [...]

# data[].attributes.headline
Museums and COVID-19: 8 steps to support community resilience

# data[].attributes.subject
Museums and COVID-19: 8 steps to support community resilience

# data[].attributes.body
suggerimenti per le azioni che i musei e i Professionisti museali possono intraprendere per sostenere il recupero della comunità durante e dopo la crisi COVID-19;  esempi di iniziative dei musei e risorse utili nel contesto attuale.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Cultural and creative sectors are among the most affected by the current coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis, and museums are no exception. We acknowledge the manifold challenges faced by museums and museum professionals during this time and urge policy- and decision-makers to rapidly allocate relief funds to ensure the sustainability of museums. In that regard, ICOM published a statement that is now available on our website.

We are closely monitoring the impact of the crisis on the museum sector and applaud the creative solutions put in place by museums across the world to reach their audiences and continue engaging with their diverse communities. We are aware that this is not simply a matter of keeping our institutions alive, but also of mobilising their efforts and capacities to support community resilience and an effective recovery.

While working together with our partner organisations, we are seeking concrete ways in which museums and governments at all levels (local, regional, national) can collaborate to ensure that museums remain high on policy-makers' agendas.

We would also like:

to provide suggestions for actions that museums and museum professionals can take to support community resilience during and after the COVID-19 crisis;

to provide examples of museums' initiatives and useful resources within the current context.

1. Secure your own safety and well-being first

The security of your museum and the safety and well-being of your staff should be your top priority. You need them as much as they need you to get through this difficult time, for your organisation's recovery, and for building resilience, now and after the crisis. Following the recommendations of governmental and health institutions (e.g. the World Health Organisation) is key.

In the meantime, listen to your staff and beware of what they need in terms of health, safety, and working conditions (e.g. resources, tools, materials). Some of them may need special accommodations to be able to keep working (from home or onsite) and protect their health and well-being and that of their loved ones. If some staff members cannot keep working under the new conditions, talk to them about possible ways to redistribute work or identify innovative and creative tasks that would be useful to your museum, or even consider allowing volunteer work during work hours (if legal and safety conditions allow it).

Be aware that you may not always know your staff members' specific situations (e.g. regarding their health, housing, or family) due to privacy protection laws and other protective measures. They may have specific needs during the current crisis, so it may be preferable not to impose generic solutions that may not be appropriate for everyone, as they may put your staff in an uncomfortable position. Remember that they do not have to disclose their personal information, but it is the duty of all of us to consider that people around us may have specific needs.

Dedicate time and space (e.g. online, on the phone) during working hours for teams to adapt to the situation, talk to and support each other, while exploring solutions together.
Keep yourself updated on the situation, globally and in the museum sector:
Contact your ICOM National Committee to find support and talk to your peers.

The American Alliance of Museums published a webpage entitled COVID-19 Resources & Information for the Museum Field as well as an article explaining how to use scenarios to plan your museum's COVID-19 response .

The Museums Association has published a number of articles, including on how museums are managing staff during the crisis .
Ethical guidelines should be followed even during these difficult times:
The ICOM Code of Ethics for Museums is a reference text setting standards for the practice of museum professionals.

Contact ICOM's newest International Committee, IC Ethics , to discuss any ethical issues that may arise during this time.

2. Try to focus on what you are doing best and seek alternative ways of doing it; try new things and revisit traditional ways of doing things

Continue doing what you think is important:

Some of your activities may be essential to continue during this time. If all health and safety conditions are met, try to keep them going;

Seek out new ways to continue conducting activities that can no longer be performed in these the new circumstances (e.g. turn family workshops into online tutorials or live events).

Times of change, whether bad or good, lead to new experiences and trying new things. In the media, we have seen many articles encouraging people who are staying at home to try to learn new things, improve on their usual routines, or create new, healthy habits (like cooking more or exercising indoors). This could also apply to your professional activities. Since your plans and habits have been disrupted, why not seek out new ways of working?

Of course, some people are facing professional, personal, and emotional overload, which makes it difficult for them to try to innovate, as they must focus on their basic needs first. The idea is not to create pressure to innovate on top of all the other challenges, but when possible, try to find new approaches that may lessen your workload or efforts by exploring new tools and revisiting traditional ones.

Try to diversify the communication tools and channels you use to reach your audience. Why not also reconsider your accessibility standards and procedures? Currently, many museums are putting an impressive amount of effort into their digital content. These initiatives are valued by a large audience, as reflected by the sharp increase in the number of website visitors. However, do not forget that some groups may not have access to or be familiar with digital platforms. If relevant to your community and your museum, help to develop digital literacy.
You can find many examples online of how museums are adapting their activities to keep in touch with their communities:
Read ICOM's newest articles on how to reach - and engage - your public remotely and how to ensure digital inclusion in museums' online activities.

The Palestinian Museum launched its 'Museum from Home - Palestine Perseveres' campaign to provide cultural and educational content for all ages through its online platform ( content in Arabic with summaries in English).

The Ethnographic Museum of Istria, in Croatia, put the content of its exhibition What Are You Afraid Of? Fear In Our Everyday Life online, noting that it is now 'unfortunately more relevant than we would expect'. Similarly, the Israel Museum has offered a new video of its exhibition Seated in Seclusion, which has taken on new meaning now that billions of people are confined at home.

The Te Papa Museum created The Little Page of Calm on its website to provide content supporting well-being.

NEMO published the results of its survey and a collection of examples of museum initiatives in Europe.

3. Monitor developments and changing societal needs; listen to your communities and determine how you can help

Try to understand the current situation and its impact on society and especially the most vulnerable community groups in your specific context. For instance, we have seen that those hit hardest by the current crisis are the homeless, women at risk of domestic violence, children with difficult access to education, migrants, refugees, and minorities experiencing increased discrimination and xenophobia. As more and more companies undertake major layoffs, the unemployed are also more vulnerable. Remember that health workers are also among those under extreme pressure.

Use every means at your disposal to identify the needs of your community:

Stay in touch with your local or regional government and social and health services;

Track data, statistics, and current societal needs and demands;

Keep in touch with your communities (through representatives) whenever possible, to hear directly from them about their most pressing needs;

Keep the UN Sustainable Development Goals in mind. They address the global challenges to achieving a better and more sustainable future for all, so they can be a powerful source of inspiration;

Identify your museum's strengths and unique characteristics in relation to these needs and brainstorm about how you can respond to one or more of them.

You can be innovative and try new things, but sometimes, solutions can also be very simple, like using your existing social media accounts to raise awareness of health prevention measures or the dangers of spreading fake news.
Check out these inspiring examples of how you can support the healthcare system:
The Museum für Naturkunde in Berlin is monitoring the outbreak and providing useful links and information to the public through its website.

Museums and heritage institutions in Normandy, France are donating their masks to health professionals. Check out this Facebook post to see what they are doing.

Curators Without Borders is offering open-source templates for making face masks from readily available materials. Check out its instructions if you would like to make and distribute masks in your community.
Consider the human rights dimension of the outbreak and monitor other museums' responses to protecting vulnerable groups:
Stay informed of the human rights dimension of the current COVID-19 response by following Human Rights Watch.

The Museum of Homelessness in the UK has been mobilising volunteers through its website to provide food and care packages to the homeless.

Check out the social media campaign from Museo Memoria y Tolerancia, in Mexico, to support human rights (on racism, the right to health, housing, decent work, social security , and domestic violence) in times of pandemic.
Seek out guidance and inspiration from other sectors:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) published Guidelines for Community Participation in Disaster Recovery.

4. Remember that you are not alone; keep in close contact with partners, collaborators and community initiatives

Remember that you are not alone and that you should not have to face these new and unprecedented challenges alone. Get in touch with colleagues, stay connected to professional networks, and share information about your successes, challenges, and how you have adapted.

Build or revitalise partnerships and solidarity with others who are also trying to offer solutions and benefit from their co-operation. Cross-sectoral partnerships with institutions or NGOs from non-cultural sectors and community initiatives could help you to find new ways to support community resilience. Many volunteers and institutions like yours are working hard to find solutions and help society, with the aim of being as useful as possible. Some institutions have created intra- or inter-organisational task forces to foster innovative actions. Consider if that could work for you!

Read the ICOM-OECD guide offering new and innovative ways to develop cross-sectoral partnerships and providing best practices for museums to maximise their social impact by co-operating with non-cultural sectors. You can also use the guide to seek out support from your local and regional governments. Cultural funding may be severely impacted by the current crisis, but by adapting their activities to respond to the most pressing issues, especially those related to health, well-being, and justice, museums should be able to benefit from other sources of support.
See how others are joining forces to stay relevant and provide a rapid response to current issues and needs through empowering partnerships:
The Ministry of Culture in Argentina launched a new call for its Points of Culture programme, which provides financial and technical support for the implementation of community cultural projects. With this new call, the ministry is trying to mitigate the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic on the cultural sector.

ART Power HK is an online platform that has invited and encouraged all organisations in Hong Kong's art community (e.g. galleries, museums, and other art organisations) to get involved in their campaign to keep the Hong Kong art scene alive and attractive after the crisis.
Explore these guidelines and reports that may be of help in building and/or strengthening partnerships to increase your social impact:
The ICOM-OECD Guide for Local Governments, Communities and Museums is a roadmap for local governments, museums, and museum professionals on how to jointly define a local development agenda that promotes a more sustainable future.

Read the Voices of Culture brainstorming report, Social Inclusion: Partnering with Other Sectors , published in October 2018, which offers a list of 'critical success factors as well as obstacles, and ultimately gives recommendations on how to improve the partnerships between the cultural and other sectors'.

5. Learn from the past

You can learn how others coped with similar situations in the past, even if the scales and contexts of their experiences may vary. Look for available documentation and remember that there are many colleagues out there willing to share their knowledge with you. Talk to them, read, and share these experiences with your network!

This is the time to develop more empathy and solidarity. Learn from other museums and organisations (e.g. libraries, archives, sites) with experience in disaster risk management and resilience. Initiatives aimed at supporting vulnerable groups and addressing difficult issues can also benefit from the experience of museums that address difficult and controversial topics such as human or animal rights, protests and marches, conflicts, immigration, the homeless, LGBTIQ+ issues, HIV/AIDS, domestic violence, or indigenous femicide.

Solidarity, empathy, and resilience are themes that have been studied and documented for years by other fields such as psychology and sociology, which could inspire our communities and help them better understand their own reactions and group behaviours.
Museums in times of crisis:
Watch the ICOM Kyoto Plenary Session on Museums in Times of Disaster , where Alejandra Peña Gutiérrez's speech on Puerto Rico's experience after Hurricane Maria showed how museums can help strengthen community resilience and support recovery.

The National Museum of Australia in Canberra has launched a digital initiative to provide a national platform for grassroots storytelling and honour front-line emergency workers as part of a wider documentary collecting and community outreach program dedicated to the summer bushfire crisis.
Museums tackling difficult, sensitive, contested issues:
Check out the 2018 issue of Museum International, 'Museums and Contested Histories', showing examples of how museums can tackle current societal issues with contested or difficult nature.

6. Consider the possibility of rapid response collecting and documenting the crisis and its impact

Documenting and exhibiting the crisis, its impact, and the various ways people are coping with trauma may enrich your collections and give them a new meaning, while also preserving knowledge and memories for future generations. See if existing strategies of contemporary and rapid response collecting (e.g. collecting new objects and/or digital materials and personal testimonies through oral history work) could be used without harming the safety of your staff and others or compromising your more demanding responsibilities.

Mapping and visualising current experiences or recontextualising your collections by developing new and creative platforms with the help of new acquisitions could be an effective way to engage with your communities. It may help them to better cope with trauma by sharing their worries, thoughts, needs, and emotions.

Whatever the type or size of your museum, if it is in line with your mission, there may be things to document and/or collect (e.g. new art around COVID-19, difficulties faced by the homeless, the impact on the environment, new urban landscapes, and the ways cities and communities are affected by the crisis).
Documentation of the crisis and online exhibitions:
The Museo Etnográfico Juan B. Ambrosetti in Argentina organised the collective exhibition ExpoCuarentena with objects being used by its community during the crisis.

The Canadian Museum for Human Rights is collecting videos and organising an online exhibition of personal stories about COVID-19.

Museums in the state of Colorado, in the US, are collecting testimonials and inviting their communities to share their COVID-19 experiences, online or by phone, in order to document this moment in time.

The Museum Erding in Germany is collecting testimonials, objects, and photographs to document life in the time of the coronavirus and how it is affecting its community.
Guidelines and ethical considerations:
If you have a similar project or want to explore how to start one, consult the documents developed by COMCOL (ICOM's International Committee for Collecting) and read their call here.

The Museums Association also published a statement on the ethics of contemporary collecting in the time of COVID-19.

7. Capitalise on the experience

While many museums are still in the midst of the crisis, some are starting to plan their reopening. This may be the time to reflect on what your institution and staff have gone (or are still going) through. You may also consider exploring ways to encourage your community to do the same.

Dedicate some time to reflecting on what was different between the crisis and 'business as usual'. Has this experience changed your priorities, as a professional and as an institution?

Have you (re)discovered new strengths or developed new skills in your institution and among your staff during this period? Have your attempts been successful? Were there any failed attempts that could be just as useful as the successful ones? Have you experienced difficulties? Any good moments of solidarity or creativity?

Are there things that you would like to integrate into your new way of 'normal' working? (It could be a new practise or tool, something you learned from a success or a failure, a new mindset, or a change in your priorities.)

It is still too soon to know how the crisis will affect your community, staff, and institution in the mid- and long-term. However, remember that you can talk to peers who have already passed the height of the crisis in order to benefit from their experience, which may help you plan for the future. For instance, they may already be seeing if visitors feel uneasy with the idea of big gatherings and are avoiding visiting museums, even in a post-crisis situation.

Professional networks like ICOM can provide valuable help in sharing knowledge and experiences with colleagues from all over the world who are facing similar challenges.

8. Stay united and help us in our advocacy efforts

Remember that your sustainability is crucial for your contribution to the sustainability of this planet. The current COVD-19 crisis is not only a health crisis but also a development crisis. As museums and museum professionals, we all have an important role to play in building a more peaceful, equal, and sustainable future.

We invite all museums and museum professionals to keep up with our advocacy efforts, share our statements, and monitor the policy measures, relief funds, assistance opportunities, and advocacy campaigns that may help them get support. If you cannot find any of these either locally, regionally, or nationally, we are here to help.
Check out ICOM's advocacy initiatives:
Read and share ICOM's statement on the necessity of relief funds for museums during the COVID-19 crisis, as well as the UNESCO and partners' statement, co-signed by ICOM, calling for turning the threat of COVID-19 into an opportunity for greater support for documentation.

Take the ICOM survey, Museums, museum professionals and COVID-19, which has been designed to gather information on how the ongoing outbreak is affecting the museum sector around the world.

Read the ICOM 2019 Resolution and President's Statement on sustainability and watch the inspiring speakers from the Curating Sustainable Futures Through Museums session during the ICOM 25th General Conference in Kyoto, Japan in 2019.

Check out our National and International Committees as well as regional alliances, affiliated organisations, standing committees, and working groups, who are all here to help ( ICOM Committees' directory).

Let us know if you have an experience that would be of help to other museums and museum professionals in supporting community resilience during this difficult time!

Contact our Museums and Society Coordinators, Afşin Altaylı and Marie Claverie, with any questions or comments, at mas@icom.museum

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Museums and COVID-19: 8 steps to support community resilience - ICOM

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Cultural and creative sectors are among the most affected by the current coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis, and museums are no exception. We acknowledge the manifold challenges faced by museums and museum professionals during this time and urge policy- and decision-makers to rapidly allocate relief funds to ensure the sustainability of museums. In that regard, ICOM published a statement that is now available on our website.

# data[].attributes.body
As we pass through this crisis and successfully emerge from it, ICCROM is committed to supporting heritage custodians around the world.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
#HeritageintimesofCOVID

COVID19 Pandemic

We are in the midst of an unprecedented global crisis, affecting our lives, our livelihoods, and the social and cultural fabric of society. COVID is impacting our movable, immovable and intangible cultural heritage and will continue to do so in coming months.

At the same time, while we face this extraordinary situation, cultural heritage is also proving to be powerful means for coping, by providing communities with psycho-social support and in some cases also providing livelihood opportunities under severe limitations. As we pass through this crisis and successfully emerge from it, ICCROM is committed to supporting heritage custodians around the world.

This is a space for ICCROM's extended community to come together and share knowledge experience and tools to overcome this crisis. The tips and tools gathered here have been put together through our alumni network. We expect to post more information as we receive it.

Contributors

We are grateful to the following people for contributing to creation of these pages:

Eyyas Abras
Water, sanitation and hygiene programme (WASH) Officer, UNICEF, Deir Az Zor, Syria

Ming Chee Ang
General Manager, George Town World Heritage Incorporated, Penang, Malaysia

Virajitha Chimalapati
Conservation Architect, George Town World Heritage Incorporated, Penang, Malaysia

Amira El Sayed
Director, Egyptian Heritage Rescue Foundation, Egypt

Catherine Forbes
Built Heritage Advisor, GML Heritage, Australia

Marcia Furriel Ramos Galvez
House of Rui Barbosa Foundation - Ministry of Culture, Brazil

Mikiko Hayashi
Research Fellow, National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, Tokyo National Research Institute for Cultural Properties, Center for Conservation Science, Japan

Clinton Jackson
Manager of the National Inventory Unit, South African Heritage Resources Agency, South Africa

Sangsun Jo
Cultural Heritage Administration, Republic of Korea

Rebecca Kennedy
Collections Care Specialist, Curae Collections Care LLC, United States

Eva Martinez
Chief of Cultural Heritage, Instituto Hondureño de Antropología e Historia, Honduras

Helen McCracken
Principal Advisor, Ministry for Culture and Heritage, New Zealand

Barbara Minguez Garcia
Consultant, World Bank

Cristina Moreno De Acevedo
Project Manager in Heritage Conservation and Humanitarian Action and Red Cross Delegate/Emergency Response Unit member (ERU), Spain

Kene Onukwube
Director Programmes, Development Education and Advocacy Resource for Africa (DEAR Africa), Nigeria

Kristin Parker
Lead Curator and Manager of the Arts, Boston Public Library, United States

Celina Rincon
Ministry of Culture, Colombia

Abdelhamid Saleh
Chairman, Egyptian Heritage Rescue Foundation (EHRF), Egypt

Alessia Strozzi
Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities, Italy

David Torres
Researcher, University College London Institute for Risk and Disaster Reduction, United Kingdom

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
HeritageintimesofCOVID We are in the midst of an unprecedented global crisis, affecting our lives, our livelihoods, and the social and cultural fabric of society. COVID is impacting our movable, immovable and intangible cultural heritage and will continue to do so in coming months.

# data[].attributes.headline
CONFCULTURA | Linee guida per la prevenzione e il controllo del COVID-19 nei luoghi di cultura

# data[].attributes.subject
CONFCULTURA | Linee guida per la prevenzione e il controllo del COVID-19 nei luoghi di cultura

# data[].attributes.headline
SURVEY | Oltremodo - Beni culturali al tempo del Corona Virus

# data[].attributes.subject
SURVEY | Oltremodo - Beni culturali al tempo del Corona Virus

# data[].attributes.body
🤬 l’emergenza sanitaria per il Covid-19 si è fermato anche il lavoro di restauratori e conservatori di beni culturali.
Il questionario è rivolto a tutti gli operatori del settore ed è completamente anonimo. Per rispondere ci vogliono circa 15 minuti.
https://oltremodo.studio

# data[].attributes.headline
SURVEY | OSSERVATORIO CULTURALE DEL PIEMONTE - Seconda fase: Monitoraggio degli effetti del COVID-19 nei comparti della cultura dal 2 marzo al 3 aprile 2020

# data[].attributes.subject
SURVEY | OSSERVATORIO CULTURALE DEL PIEMONTE - Seconda fase: Monitoraggio degli effetti del COVID-19 nei comparti della cultura dal 2 marzo al 3 aprile 2020

# data[].attributes.body
Allo scopo di fornire un quadro il più preciso possibile, rilevato 🤬 il dovuto rigore
metodologico, 🤬 informazioni controllate che definiscano la dimensione di ciò che sta
accadendo in termini di danno economico arrecato all'intero comparto culturale, vi chiediamo
di indicare qui di seguito alcuni dati utili alla quantificazione degli effetti derivanti dalle restrizioni in vigore per l'emergenza COVID-19 tra il 2 marzo e il 3 aprile 2020.

# data[].attributes.headline
SURVEY | ANAI - Archivisti in emergenza. COVID-19 e professione

# data[].attributes.subject
SURVEY | ANAI - Archivisti in emergenza. COVID-19 e professione

# data[].attributes.body
Le domande del questionario sono rivolte agli archivisti che operano nel settore pubblico e privato. Esse vogliono indagare sulla percezione degli effetti che le misure, adottate per fare fronte all'emergenza COVID-19, hanno avuto sul lavoro.

# data[].attributes.headline
SURVEY | NEMO - Digitization and Copyright in European Museums

# data[].attributes.subject
SURVEY | NEMO - Digitization and Copyright in European Museums

# data[].attributes.body
What are the challenges and obstacles for museums in Europe to digitalize their collections and make them accessible online? In this survey we concentrate on that question and pay particular attention to copyright issues and the implementation process of the Digital Single Market Directive (DSMD).

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The Network of European Museum Organisations (NEMO) was founded in 1992 as an independent network of national museum organisations representing the museum community of the member states of the Council of Europe.

The NEMO Working Group on Digitalization and Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) supports European museums to fully tap the potential that digitalization holds for museums. A particular focus lies on the opportunities and challenges of opening and using museum collections online.

What are the challenges and obstacles for museums in Europe to digitalize their collections and make them accessible online? In this survey we concentrate on that question and pay particular attention to copyright issues and the implementation process of the Digital Single Market Directive (DSMD).

If you have any questions, please contact our survey representative Nina Szogs (nina.szogs@posteo.org).

Your feedback is important!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Digitization and Copyright in European Museums

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Network of European Museum Organisations (NEMO) was founded in 1992 as an independent network of national museum organisations representing the museum community of the member states of the Council of Europe.

# data[].attributes.headline
SURVEY | ICOM - Museums, museum professionals and COVID-19

# data[].attributes.subject
SURVEY | ICOM - Museums, museum professionals and COVID-19

# data[].attributes.body
The #COVID19 pandemic threatens the livelihood of thousands of museum professionals across the world.

To advocate for emergency public funds and private support, we need data. Help us assess the impact of COVID-19 by completing our survey

# data[].attributes.headline
COVID-19 | ICOM-CC recommendations for the conservation of museum collections

# data[].attributes.subject
COVID-19 | ICOM-CC recommendations for the conservation of museum collections

# data[].attributes.body
Una serie di “linee guida per la pandemia” su come procedere nelle azioni di conservazione durante l’emergenza, mettendo al primo posto la sicurezza dei lavoratori.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Le raccomandazioni di ICOM-CC sono disponibili, in inglese, sul sito di ICOM.

Traduzione a cura di ICOM Italia

Raccomandazioni per i musei durante la pandemia COVID 19
La pandemia COVID-19 sta avendo un impatto sul settore museale in una maniera al momento non prevedibile, specialmente per quanto riguarda le perdite economiche. Già adesso, comunque, le chiusure imposte e l'assenza della maggior parte del personale possono avere serie conseguenze sulla conservazione e la sicurezza delle collezioni.
Senza tralasciare tutte le misure necessarie a contenere la diffusione della malattia e a garantire la sicurezza della popolazione, i musei non possono mancare di adempiere alla loro funzione principale di preservare il patrimonio materiale e immateriale dell'umanità.

Le istituzioni culturali nel mondo hanno già dato prova di grande resilienza e creatività nella comunicazione da remoto con il loro pubblico. Per aiutarle ulteriormente durante questi tempi incerti abbiamo preparato, con l'aiuto di ICOM International Committee for Conservation (ICOM-CC), una serie di "linee guida per la pandemia" su come procedere nelle azioni di conservazione durante l'emergenza, mettendo al primo posto la sicurezza dei lavoratori.
N.B. queste raccomandazioni sono state scritte il 4 aprile 2020. Si basano sulle linee guida per la prevenzione del Covid-19 che vengono continuamente aggiornate. Si prega di fare comunque riferimento anche alle disposizioni del governo e delle istituzioni locali e a quelle dell'OMS per le versioni più aggiornate riguardanti i comportamenti e le procedure più sicuri. IN GENERALE
1. Le raccomandazioni internazionali esortano le istituzioni pubbliche a chiudere fino a quando la minaccia del Coronavirus non costituisca più un pericolo. Nella vostra istituzione è prevista solo la presenza del personale indispensabile. Questo può includere gli addetti alla sicurezza, i tecnici e, occasionalmente, il restauratore o il responsabile delle collezioni.

2. Preparate una lista di personale/esperti che saranno operativi regolarmente e altri che possano essere disponibili. Stabilite collaborazioni con i musei vicini o con istituzioni simili per la sostituzione o lo scambio di personale nel caso qualcuno del museo sia stato infettato.

3. I virus perdono la capacità infettiva piuttosto velocemente sulle superfici, ma possono rimanere attivi fino a 72 ore e superfici diverse registrano tempi differenti di contaminazione.

4. Organizzate interventi di pulizia più frequenti nelle aree nelle quali le persone accedono quotidianamente.

5. Procedete alla sostituzione dei filtri dell'impianto di condizionamento dell'aria. Nel caso di assenza di impianto di condizionamento considerate di compiere con regolarità altri tipi di ventilazione controllata delle aree espositive e nei depositi.

6. In caso di contagio documentato, mettete in quarantena le aree interessate per almeno due settimane o fino a quando l'accesso sia ritenuto sicuro.
NEGLI SPAZI ESPOSITIVI
La prima raccomandazione in tutto il mondo è di chiudere al pubblico i luoghi di assembramento, incluse le aree espositive per il prossimo futuro, e promuovere il distanziamento sociale. Se questo nel vostro paese non fosse possibile, vi suggeriamo di:

- Limitare l'accesso negli spazi espositivi per facilitare i visitatori a mantenere le distanze tra di loro. In generale la distanza raccomandata è di almeno un metro e mezzo. Limitare l'orario di apertura - 4 ore invece delle solite 8 - oppure scaglionare gli ingressi in modo da avere un numero inferiore di persone in una data fascia oraria in una certa area.

- Installare all'ingresso un distributore dl gel disinfettante e/o assicurarsi che i visitatori abbiano facile accesso a locali lavamani dotati di sapone e acqua calda. Predisporre una segnaletica che incoraggi i visitatori a mantenere le mani pulite e lontane dal viso.

- Rimuovere audioguide e altri dispositivi con schermo tattile.

- Disinfettare frequentemente i pulsanti di attivazione di installazioni o esposizioni.

- Limitare l'accesso alle installazioni che non possono essere accuratamente pulite e disinfettate.
PULIZIA DEGLI SPAZI ESPOSITIVI
Seguite le istruzioni ordinarie per la pulizia a umido/a secco ma aumentatene la frequenza ad almeno una volta al giorno.

Per la pulizia delle vetrine e di superfici affini possono essere utilizzati acqua sapone e spray disinfettanti (70% alcol isopropilico o etanolo), purché non vengano usati sugli oggetti esposti. Prestate attenzione ai materiali e ai rivestimenti sensibili all'alcol (plexiglass, gommalacca, vernici ecc.).

Assicuratevi che il personale addetto alle pulizie sia addestrato. Se possibile impiegate persone che abbiano familiarità con le collezioni e con le specifiche procedure per la pulizia di quegli spazi.

Gli oggetti esposti devono essere puliti solo da personale addestrato (restauratori o professionisti museali/delle collezioni)
DEPOSITI E AREE DI LAVORO NON ACCESSIBILI AL PUBBLICO
- Limitate, se possibile, la movimentazione e il contatto con gli oggetti.

- Assicurate a tutto il personale la possibilità di lavarsi le mani con acqua calda e sapone, di usare gel disinfettante e guanti monouso.

- Assicurate che un numero limitato di persone lavori nella stessa stanza (massimo 5) e che le stesse possano mantenere la distanza di sicurezza tra loro. Generalmente la distanza raccomandata è di un metro e mezzo.

- Gruppi di persone più numerosi possono essere divisi e messi in condizione di lavorare a giorni alterni per mantenere le distanze di sicurezza.

- Dividete il personale in squadre, in modo che le stesse persone lavorino insieme sempre.

- Lavate e disinfettate con grande frequenza superfici, maniglie, pomelli, interruttori, macchinette da caffè e simili.

- Mascherine, anche in tela fatte in casa, possono essere indossate soprattutto per ricordare al personale di non toccarsi il viso.

- I musei dovrebbero avere un'area per la quarantena degli oggetti. Questi spazi dovrebbero essere equipaggiati con mensole, armadi e scatole vuoti in cui potere custodire tali oggetti, rivestendoli, toccandoli il meno possibile, separandoli dalle collezioni principali, con indicazione chiara della data e del motivo dell'isolamento nonché della persona responsabile dello spostamento in quarantena.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
COVID-19 | ICOM-CC recommendations for the conservation of museum collections, April 16, 2020 - ICOM Italia

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Le raccomandazioni di ICOM-CC sono disponibili, in inglese, sul sito di ICOM. Traduzione a cura di ICOM Italia La pandemia COVID-19 sta avendo un impatto sul settore museale in una maniera al momento non prevedibile, specialmente per quanto riguarda le perdite economiche.

# data[].attributes.body
Cultural Rescue Initiative, by Smithsonian

The Heritage Emergency National Task Force has compiled relevant COVID-19 URLs from its members and other stakeholders. It’s heartening to see so many resources shared so widely. However, that means you will likely encounter some of the same resources as you delve into these links. A wonderful example of how heritage sectors are inextricably woven together. Together, we will get through this.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
COVID-19 Resource Hub

The Heritage Emergency National Task Force has compiled relevant COVID-19 URLs from its members and other stakeholders. It's heartening to see so many resources shared so widely. However, that means you will likely encounter some of the same resources as you delve into these links. A wonderful example of how heritage sectors are inextricably woven together. Together, we will get through this.

These websites - including this one - are constantly being updated as new information becomes available, so be sure to bookmark this page and other favorites and check back frequently. If you would like HENTF to consider adding your organization's resource page(s), please email hentf@si.edu.

Federal and Global Guidance
World Health Organization. Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) Pandemic Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
COVID-19 Disaster Declarations Fact Sheet (4/2/20): Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic: Private Nonprofit Organizations Fact Sheet (3/19/20): Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic: Eligible Emergency Protective Measures Fact Sheet (3/26/20) Coronavirus (COVID-19): FEMA Assistance for Tribal Governments
Dashboards for Situational Awareness

A data dashboard is the most efficient way to track multiple data sources as they continue to input new information during an evolving situation. Continual assessment of the data allows users to analyze the situation and make informed decisions.

If you have an impact to report - lost income, attendance, or other impacts - please follow the link to the survey The Economic Impact of Coronavirus on the Arts and Culture Sector
A dashboard reporting on the latest results from AFTA's ongoing survey to capture coronavirus-related economic impact reports from artists, arts organizations, and arts agencies of all types, genres, sizes, and tax statuses. here. Americans for the Arts

Guidance on Funding Your Organization's Recovery

CARES Act: How to Apply for Nonprofit Relief Funds
The Independent Sector has developed an easy-to-use tool to help individuals and nonprofits understand the CARES Act eligibility criteria, timelines, and application information. Please note these resources are in addition to the NEA/NEH/IMLS federal allocations (see Funder Support of the Heritage Community).

Small Business Administration

The three bills that passed Congress in March 2020 have given the Small Business Administration (SBA) broad authorities and are opening up programs not usually associated with the SBA's Disaster Assistance program. Keep returning to SBA's website to review the latest information.

The SBA also announced deferments on all SBA disaster loans from previous disasters, effective through December 31, 2020.

Assistance for Small Businesses
Guidance, provided by the Small Business Administration (SBA) in consultation with the U.S. Department of the Treasury, to address borrower and lender questions concerning the implementation of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), established by section 1102 of the CARES Act. The site includes a program overview, FAQs, and a borrower application form.

FEMA Public Assistance Program

U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation

Funder Support of the Heritage Community

Emergency Grants and Resources for Artists
In light of the anticipated volume of requests for assistance, for the time-being, CERF+'s emergency relief grants related to COVID-19 will focus on those infected with the virus who require intensive medical care. CERF+

Collections Care During a Pandemic

COVID-19 Basics: Personal Protective Equipment (Video 2)
The second video in the NCPTT COVID-19 Basics series, this 35-minute recording addresses risk assessment, protection, use of personal protective equipment, disinfection, homemade masks, and advice on how to help our communities. National Center for Preservation Technology and Training

Resources for Museums

COVID-19 Resources & Information for the Museum Field
A guide to help museums prepare internally and externally for outbreaks in their communities and navigate the broader impact of COVID-19. American Alliance of Museums

to add their institution's response to COVID-19, as well as helpful links to other organizations. COVID-19 Updates
Provides a link for academic museums and galleries Association of Academic Museums and Galleries

Resources for Archives

Coronavirus
Information includes current status of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) services and links to U.S. government resources. National Archives and Records Administration

Resources for Libraries

Resources for Artists and Arts Organizations

Resources for Historic Properties, Sites, and Organizations

Resources for Indian Country

Resources for Emergency Managers

See also Federal and Global Guidance and Dashboards for Situational Awareness.

Resources for Extension Educators

The Extension Disaster Education Network (EDEN) is a collaborative multi-state effort by Cooperative Extension Services across the country to improve the delivery of services to citizens affected by disasters. EDEN's mission is to reduce the impact of disasters through research-based education.

Preparing for the Next Pandemic

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Heritage Emergency National Task Force has compiled relevant COVID-19 URLs from its members and other stakeholders. It's heartening to see so many resources shared so widely. However, that means you will likely encounter some of the same resources as you delve into these links.

# data[].attributes.body
La normativa di riferimento e gli approfondimenti sui provvedimenti previsti per l’emergenza coronavirus per il Terzo Settore

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
NORMATIVA DI RIFERIMENTO

DECRETO-LEGGE 17 marzo 2020, n. 18 (detto Decreto 'Cura Italia')
Misure di potenziamento del Servizio sanitario nazionale e di sostegno economico per famiglie, lavoratori e imprese connesse all'emergenza epidemiologica da COVID-19. (20G00034)
GU Serie Generale n.70 del 17-03-2020

DECRETO DEL PRESIDENTE DEL CONSIGLIO DEI MINISTRI 9 marzo 2020
Ulteriori disposizioni attuative del decreto-legge 23 febbraio 2020, n. 6, recante misure urgenti in materia di contenimento e gestione dell'emergenza epidemiologica da COVID-19, applicabili sull'intero territorio nazionale. (20A01558)
GU Serie Generale n.62 del 09-03-2020

DECRETO DEL PRESIDENTE DEL CONSIGLIO DEI MINISTRI 8 marzo 2020
Ulteriori disposizioni attuative del decreto-legge 23 febbraio 2020, n. 6, recante misure urgenti in materia di contenimento e gestione dell'emergenza epidemiologica da COVID-19. (20A01522)GU Serie Generale n.59 del 08-03-2020

DECRETO DEL PRESIDENTE DEL CONSIGLIO DEI MINISTRI 8 marzo 2020
Ulteriori disposizioni attuative del decreto-legge 23 febbraio 2020, n. 6, recante misure urgenti in materia di contenimento e gestione dell'emergenza epidemiologica da COVID-19. (20A01522)
GU Serie Generale n.45 del 23-02-2020

DECRETO-LEGGE 25 marzo 2020, n. 19
Misure urgenti per fronteggiare l'emergenza epidemiologica da COVID-19. (20G00035)
GU Serie Generale n.79 del 25-03-2020
Nota: entrata in vigore del provvedimento, 26/03/2020

Dalla proroga della scadenza per l'adeguamento degli statuti e la presentazione dei bilanci, agli incentivi alle donazioni, la sospensione di alcuni versamenti e delle attività di centri diurni e semiresidenziali. Una lettura di alcuni dei provvedimenti previsti per l'emergenza coronavirus

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
COVID-19: gli aggiornamenti normativi - ICOM Italia

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
NORMATIVA DI RIFERIMENTO DECRETO-LEGGE 17 marzo 2020, n. 18 (detto Decreto 'Cura Italia') Misure di potenziamento del Servizio sanitario nazionale e di sostegno economico per famiglie, lavoratori e imprese connesse all'emergenza epidemiologica da COVID-19. (20G00034) GU Serie Generale n.70 del 17-03-2020 DECRETO DEL PRESIDENTE DEL CONSIGLIO DEI MINISTRI 9 marzo 2020 Ulteriori disposizioni attuative del decreto-legge 23 febbraio 2020, n.

# data[].attributes.headline
Digital ergo sum: vademecum per i musei ai tempi del coronavirus

# data[].attributes.subject
Digital ergo sum: vademecum per i musei ai tempi del coronavirus

# data[].attributes.body
Museodolom.it

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Come risposta all'emergenza che sta coinvolgendo in modo globale tutti gli stati del mondo, il web e i canali digitali stanno assumendo un'importanza fondamentale, diventando l'unico mezzo attraverso cui poter rimanere in contatto con i nostri cari, mantenere spazi di socialità, continuare ad apprendere e fare cultura. Le istituzioni culturali possono imparare tantissimo da questa situazione di difficoltà, ma è importante darsi il tempo di sviluppare una riflessione sulla natura di questi spazi, che da 20 anni ormai hanno completamente rivoluzionato la nostra società. Da 10 anni studio, osservo e sperimento questo orizzonte in continua trasformazione, e nella mia ricerca cerco di capire cosa i musei possono imparare dalle piattaforme digitali e quali trasformazioni sono necessarie per continuare a rimanere significativi e connessi con il tessuto sociale. Per iniziare a dare una risposta, nel 2016 ho fondato, insieme a Giacomo Pompanin, il museo virtuale DOLOM.IT, che risponde alle caratteristiche di un nuovo modello museale che definisco 'museo-piattaforma': un museo che, prendendo spunto dal funzionamento delle piattaforme digitali, rivoluziona l'idea di creare contenuti per il pubblico, permettendo a tutti di diventare curatori e creatori di patrimonio.

Da questa esperienza nasce questo vademecum pensato per i musei e gli enti culturali che si trovano, come risposta alle misure Covid-19, a trasferire il loro operato negli spazi digitali. Vuole essere soprattutto uno stimolo per fare di questa emergenza un'occasione per innovare le proprie pratiche e per intraprendere una nuova fase evolutiva.

Lo affronteremo attraverso quattro punti:

1. Non basta trasferire le proprie pratiche sul web. Bisogna ripensarle e ripensarsi

2. Nel Web, avviare processi è più importante che sviluppare prodotti

3. Il digitale è un patrimonio fragile

4. A.A.A. Nuovi curatori digitali cercasi

Trasferire i modi di fare cultura 'analogici' ai canali digitali non è sufficiente per abbracciare i cambiamenti sociali che questi strumenti hanno portato con sé. È necessario, prima di tutto, riflettere sull'impatto delle piattaforme nella nostra società e sul modo in cui la cultura viene concepita e vissuta. I canali dove oggi ci troviamo a trasferire il nostro racconto, non sono spazi neutri: sono spazi dove chiunque può diventare autore di contenuti. Non cambiano solo i luoghi, quindi, ma cambiano anche i modi di fare cultura: se prima era sufficiente proporre un racconto, oggi è possibile anche includere in questo racconto il contributo degli utenti. Questo ci porta a modificare anche la nostra idea di pubblico - da utente passivo a contributore attivo - e di prodotti culturali: alle mostre, conferenze, eventi - che siano, o no, in streaming - si affiancano processi partecipativi che invitano le persone a contribuire alla creazione dei contenuti attraverso la rete. Campagne e contest online non sono, quindi, solo operazioni di marketing per estendere la conoscenza del museo, ma canali attraverso cui creare nuovi patrimoni e comunità.

Se il Web è uno spazio partecipativo, occorre ripensare interamente il modo in cui si concepisce la propria offerta. I musei - e gli enti culturali in generale - sono nati e continuano a operare prevalentemente utilizzando un approccio 'broadcasting': sviluppando prodotti destinati alla fruizione del pubblico. Ma viviamo in un mondo di piattaforme che ci offrono, prima di tutto, occasioni di dialogo, interazione, condivisione. Questa libertà di opinione, che permette a tutti di contribuire ad arricchire un argomento con la propria prospettiva, lancia una grande sfida agli enti culturali, che sono sempre stati abituati ad esercitare il controllo sui propri contenuti. Dal web possiamo imparare una lezione importante: che rinunciare a una quota di controllo sull'informazione, non pregiudica necessariamente la qualità dei contenuti. Anzi. Ci può aprire intere nuove prospettive attraverso cui guardare al patrimonio. Possiamo scoprire nuovi modi per raccontarlo, insieme a nuove storie e nuovi narratori che possono aiutarci a farlo crescere. Con Museo DOLOM.IT, centinaia di studenti e abitanti del territorio dolomitico sono diventati curatori di mostre virtuali, tour multimediali, videostorie, paesaggi sonori che contribuiscono non solo a conoscere il patrimonio dei musei e quello diffuso sul territorio, ma anche a reinterpretarlo con i linguaggi della contemporaneità. È il processo stesso di creazione di queste narrazioni a diventare patrimonio.

Oggi abbiamo l'illusione di poter conservare tutto: le nostre memorie digitali sono un flusso continuo di immagini, parole, suoni. Che può svanire in un click. Perché tenere tutto, nel web, equivale a non conservare niente. Per trasformare queste memorie in ricordi, bisogna averne cura, selezionare i contenuti che vogliamo preservare e inserirli in una narrazione. Lo possiamo fare con i nostri ricordi personali - un messaggio o una foto a cui teniamo - e lo deve fare il museo con le memorie digitali della nostra epoca. Pensate alle migliaia di performance sui balconi delle case italiane realizzati durante i l flashmob sonoro dello scorso weekend: frammenti di memoria che rischiano di perdersi nella rete, se non vengono raccolti e trasferiti su una piattaforma unitaria. Oggi il museo deve iniziare a usare il web non solo come spazio per comunicare, ma anche come un archivio spontaneo di patrimoni digitali che è suo compito ricercare, curare e preservare: patrimoni che possono avere lo stesso valore di un oggetto custodito in una teca. Ed essere ancora più fragili.

Se collezionare memorie digitali diventa una pratica quotidiana, il museo ha bisogno di nuovi curatori digitali. Per trasferire questi patrimoni alle generazioni future, bisogna conoscere le loro specifiche caratteristiche e saper scegliere le piattaforme più adatte dove trasferirli. Nella campagna #DolomitesMuseum, lanciata nell'ambito del progetto 'Musei delle Dolomiti' della fondazione Dolomiti UNESCO, il lavoro di raccolta e trasferimento è parte essenziale. Ad oggi, più di 130 storie e 300 risorse digitali provenienti dai diversi profili social dei musei, possono essere esplorate all'interno di mappe interattive e gallerie fotografiche. È un lavoro che richiede tempo e lo sviluppo di nuove competenze: questo momento di crisi può essere anche un'occasione per comprendere meglio di quali professionalità i musei hanno bisogno, per continuare ad esercitare la missione di centri di cultura e rendere disponibile anche queste nuove memorie digitali alle generazioni future.

Questa emergenza sta spingendo molte istituzioni a percepire l'importanza del digitale che è diventato, in queste settimane, spazio unico nel quale poter operare. Prendiamoci il tempo di esplorarlo, capirlo. Non dobbiamo avere fretta di tradurre le nostre pratiche precedenti agli spazi online. Questo vanificherebbe la grande opportunità di cambiamento che abbiamo oggi. Oggi che il mondo, cosí come lo conoscevamo, si è rivelato nella sua fragilità, mai come ora ci viene chiesto un cambiamento di prospettiva. L'emergenza, come tutte le crisi, ci dà anche una grande opportunità: quella di fermarci, e di ripensare interamente alle nostre istituzioni. Come cambierà la nostra idea di museo, dopo questa emergenza? Quali nuovi patrimoni necessitano di essere preservati? E che ruolo, oggi, possono avere le persone nella vita delle istituzioni?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
DIGITAL ERGO SUM: VADEMECUM PER I MUSEI AI TEMPI DEL CORONAVIRUS

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Come risposta all'emergenza che sta coinvolgendo in modo globale tutti gli stati del mondo, il web e i canali digitali stanno assumendo un'importanza fondamentale, diventando l'unico mezzo attraverso cui poter rimanere in contatto con i nostri cari, mantenere spazi di socialità, continuare ad apprendere e fare cultura.

# data[].attributes.headline
Coronavirus: how will it affect museums and what can be done to mitigate the impact?

# data[].attributes.subject
Coronavirus: how will it affect museums and what can be done to mitigate the impact?

# data[].attributes.body
Museums Association

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Sector stakeholders have met government officials to discuss crisis

The Museums Association (MA) is among the museum stakeholders that met the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport this week to outline the impact that the novel coronavirus pandemic is likely to have on the museum, gallery and heritage sectors.

The spread of Covid-19 has already hit visitor numbers and income. There have been significant drops in overseas group bookings, while some museums, particularly those with older audiences, are reporting falls in domestic footfall. The demise of the airline Flybe last week, which is partly blamed on the pandemic, is likely to have an added impact on visitor numbers in cities such as Inverness and Belfast.

Some countries are taking unprecedented steps to prevent the spread of the virus. All of Italy is under lockdown, while public institutions in other European countries such as Ireland and Denmark are closing.

The situation in the UK is evolving rapidly and although it is not yet clear whether the government here will take such drastic measures to contain the outbreak, the museum sector is bracing itself for major impacts to workforce, visitor numbers and income.

MA director Sharon Heal said: "This is a difficult time for everyone that works in museums and our communities. The MA is supporting our members and the wider sector by discussing with government, sector funders and other bodies what form the best advice and support might take. We have surveyed our members and we know that many are already taking the correct precautionary measures to protect staff, volunteers and visitors.

"The bigger issue will be the medium and long-term impact if travel restrictions are applied and public gatherings banned. Many museums operate with tight financial margins and even a few weeks loss of income could seriously undermine their business models. We would appeal to government and funders to provide financial support and emergency funding for institutions that are effected by the epidemic; and also ask funders to operate flexibility in terms of delivery of currently funded projects."

In the coming weeks the MA is planning to discuss these impacts with government agencies and sector bodies in the devolved nations. Museums Galleries Scotland is currently liaising with other cultural leaders and the Scottish government, and intends to publish guidance shortly. Museums in Wales have also been in touch with the Welsh government about the crisis.

Based on the feedback the MA has received from museum professionals across the UK, these are some of the ways in which the sector might be affected, and measures that museums are taking to mitigate the impact:

Some museums highlighted the potential risk to front-of-house and volunteers getting sick due to their contact with visitors. The Front-of-House (FoH) network writes on Twitter: "Museums and other organisations must be supporting their workforce. Those on zero-hour contracts and others vulnerable if they are ill. #FoHMuseums are arguably at greatest risk because of regular contact with public, they need to be sure they are safe and supported by management."

Staff and volunteers taking time off could lead to under-staffing and potential shutdowns. Many museums have an older volunteer pool and are already seeing an impact on their volunteer numbers.

Many museum staff are already being encouraged to work from home where possible to mitigate the impact on projects. However, this is more feasible for back-of-house roles. Some museums are reviewing IT systems to assess how they can keep things running if staff need to work from home.

In this week's budget, the UK government announced a package of measures designed to help businesses and workers cover the cost of illness. Statutory sick pay will apply from the first day of self-isolation in order to discourage people from coming to work while sick. The government will cover two weeks' sick pay for small- to medium-sized businesses and will accept sick notes provided by NHS 111 rather than a GP. Claiming Universal Credit or Contributory Employment and Support Allowance will be made easier for people who are not eligible for Statutory Sick Pay.

There is concern that staff, particularly front-of-house workers and others on casual contracts, will be at risk of losing pay as a result of short notice museum closures. In this week's budget, the government confirmed that self-employed people in financial distress may be eligible for support from HMRC with their tax affairs, while local authorities have been given a £500m fund to help people facing financial hardship.

As public spaces where large crowds of people gather, museums are sites that could contribute to the spread of the virus. Many institutions are taking precautionary measures to reduce this risk and encourage visitors to engage in good sanitary practices.

Government advice is for people to wash their hands for at least 20 seconds every time before eating. Some museums are taking steps to encourage staff and visitors to do this in their public cafes and restrooms. Some have installed additional handwash and hand sanitiser dispensers in public areas.

Museums have an important role in providing free, accessible public toilets and handwashing facilities, but this also could create a strain on resources.

Many museums are exploring more effective ways to clean and disinfect their galleries and equipment. Some professionals are seeking further advice from manufacturers on how to clean and disinfect touchscreens and interactives without causing damage.

It is also important for museums to be seen to be taking action by signposting to visitors the measures that have been put in place. Precautions being considered by some museums include removing audioguides, hands-on objects and exhibits, ceasing object handling activities and closing play areas. Additional support or funding should be made available for deep cleaning.

Self-isolation and social distancing are key measures to prevent the spread of the virus. This could have a significant effect on many areas of museum work, as well as on revenue.

At present, the UK government is not saying public spaces should close - but museums could be forced to shut completely at some point. Visitor numbers are likely to fall regardless as people increasingly avoid public spaces.

Outreach programming, particularly for older people, is likely to be affected. Museums will need to consider how to balance the risk to people's health if sessions go ahead, against the impact that cancelling such programmes may have on the wellbeing of people who are already socially and geographically isolated.

Museums are considering other ways to reach visitors, including online engagement.

Loss of income from falling visitor numbers and prolonged closure could pose a serious problem for museums, particular for smaller, independent institutions that rely heavily on revenue from visitors.

The closure of schools and cancellation of school trips may also result in loss of income. Many learning services rely on schools income rather than core funding to cover their staff wages and workshop costs.

The UK government has pledged a fiscal stimulus of £12bn to keep the economy afloat during the crisis. This includes temporary tax waivers for businesses in financial distress, as well as covering two weeks' sick pay for small- to medium-sized businesses. Properties with a rateable value of £51,000 and under will not have to pay any business rates this year.

A number of bodies representing the charitable sector have written to the chancellor asking the government to provide support to not-for-profit, social enterprise and charity organisations left out of pocket or facing cashflow problems as a result of the outbreak.

The letter calls for an emergency fund for charities facing insolvency and for the charitable sector to be included in any economic stimulus packages or measures offered to the business sector.

There are calls for funding bodies such as the National Lottery Heritage Fund to offer flexibility regarding the timescale and requirements for grant-funded projects, including funding drawdown, reporting and evaluation.
Loans, exhibitions and travel
Museums in other affected countries have already seen the postponement or cancellation of exhibitions due to travel restrictions and difficulty in transporting objects. The epidemic is likely to impact decisions of museums to loan objects either in or out, especially of objects that require couriers. Staff may need to find last-minute replacements for displays.

Some museums are restricting international travel of staff. This could have a financial impact on budgets that are already stretched, as well as affecting organisational relationships.

Some museums have warned of the reputational risk if a site is identified as the source of an infection, or if the museum is seen to have taken inadequate or inappropriate action. At least one museum has already had to shut down false rumours on social media related to its response to the coronavirus.

There may be opportunities for museums to use their collections and stories for public health information. Military museums and museums with local history collections are likely to have Spanish Flu collections that could be used to shed light on the current epidemic, and likewise there is potential for science and medical collections to be used in this way. Collections could also be used to demonstrate how communities can support each other in times of crisis.

Some museums are already engaged in contemporary collecting to capture the story of the outbreak.

This article was edited to include new information following the government's budget announcement.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Coronavirus: how will it affect museums and what can be done to mitigate the impact? | Museums Association

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Sector stakeholders have met government officials to discuss crisis The Museums Association (MA) is among the museum stakeholders that met the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport this week to outline the impact that the novel coronavirus pandemic is likely to have on the museum, gallery and heritage sectors.

# data[].attributes.headline
COVID-19 | Resources and Information for the Museum Field

# data[].attributes.subject
COVID-19 | Resources and Information for the Museum Field

# data[].attributes.body
America Alliance of Museums

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Introduction

With the growing spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus) in the United States, museums must be well prepared for potential outbreaks as public spaces, employers for over 726,000 individuals, and institutions that hold significant public trust.

The American Alliance of Museums has compiled this guide to help museums prepare internally and externally for outbreaks in their communities. AAM will continue to monitor this evolving situation and update this guidance as needed. These recommendations are not to be taken as legal advice or a definitive answer for any particular museum, but rather as a guide for preparedness for the field.

Follow the links below or click "Read more" under the section summaries for expanded guidance.

Directory of Resources

Educating the public on COVID-19

Museums are the most trusted source of information in America, rated higher than local papers, nonprofit researchers, the US government, or academic researchers. Museums can take advantage of this high level of public trust to provide education on COVID-19 and fight misinformation about its spread.

By empowering the public with the information they need to lower their risk of contracting or spreading disease, museums can help sustain healthy communities, maintain calm, and reduce the chances for an increase in discrimination or xenophobia often created by global diseases.

Reviewing staff policies and administrative concerns

Administrative Policies

Museums should take steps now to revisit and update administrative policies and engage in clear and regular communication with staff in the process. Specific recommendations include:

Review emergency disaster and succession plans, making changes as needed.

Review insurance policies with an eye toward how a potential outbreak might impact business interruption insurance or general liability policy.

Keep human resources policies in mind.

Engage your staff in scenario planning. In the event of an outbreak in your community, schools may close, or local government may even choose to temporarily close cultural institutions. While we cannot predict what will happen, putting plans in place for different scenarios will help facilitate your museum's responses no matter the situation.

Staff Travel

Museums should track the CDC Travel Health Notices and the State Department Travel Advisories to determine what business travel should be canceled or postponed. The CDC currently recommends that travelers avoid all nonessential travel to China, South Korea, Italy, and Iran.

For employees who have traveled to affected areas, consider implementing self-quarantine requirements. According to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), there are no laws that prohibit employers from requiring employees to work remotely from their worksite as a precaution.

Guidance for Employers

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provide extensive guidance for employers, including information relevant for museums as they develop strategies to keep staff safe. This information may help prevent workplace exposure to acute respiratory illnesses and provides planning considerations if there are more widespread community outbreaks of COVID-19.

Recommended strategies for employers:

Encourage good hygiene

Perform routine environmental cleaning

Actively encourage sick employees to stay home

Planning Considerations

Museums should consider how best to decrease the spread and lower the impact of COVID-19 in their workplace in the event of an outbreak in their geographic area. They should identify and communicate their objectives, which may include one or more of the following: (a) reducing transmission among staff, (b) protecting people who are at higher risk for adverse health complications, (c) maintaining business operations, and (d) minimizing adverse effects on visitors and other entities in their supply chains.

Reviewing cleaning and collections care policies

As with any contagious illness, good housekeeping is necessary to maintain the health of those in and around the museum during a coronavirus outbreak. But while the safety of people should come first, it is also important to maintain the safety of exhibition spaces and objects, both while on display and in storage. Finding the right balance between using the strongest disinfecting cleaning supplies and those that will not harm people or objects is key.

Preparing for closures

If a museum should need to close, whether due to staff illness or a significant outbreak in its geographical area, workers should be prepared to do the following things:

Develop comprehensive communications plans to inform the public about the closure

Ensure that collections are in stable condition to withstand being left alone for days

Ensure a policy is in place so that environmental and other conditions are suitable and stable on an ongoing basis

Preventing spread at public events and programs

For museums that remain open to the public and host events, we recommend consulting the World Health Organization's guidelines for organizing mass gatherings in the context of COVID-19. This resource includes recommendations for planning, risk assessment, and other considerations relevant to museums.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also provide applicable guidance for community events, with sections on strategies to implement before, during, and after a potential outbreak.

Preparing for COVID-19 as an individual

Individuals can prepare for outbreaks of COVID-19 by regularly monitoring information distributed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO). Common-sense preventative measures are highly recommended, including:

Washing your hands often, with soap, for 20 seconds

Using alcohol-based hand sanitizer

Not touching your face-especially your eyes, nose, or mouth-with unwashed hands

Monitoring your health

Avoiding close contact with anyone who is sick

Staying home when you are sick, except to get medical care

Covering your coughs and sneezes with tissues

Cleaning high-touch areas of your home and workspace frequently

Limiting close contact with others as much as possible (at least six feet)

Using digital platforms to remain connected to audiences during quarantines

With the looming uncertainty and the public's growing fear around coronavirus, it is more important than ever for museums and cultural attractions to explore new digital and remote ways to reach audiences. In China, the government is encouraging museums to "promote new technology and inheritance of our country's cultural heritage," and Art Basel has launched new online "viewing rooms" in light of the cancellation of its major Hong Kong fair. Online collections, virtual reality, 360-degree video, and live streams have the potential to play critical roles in engaging the public, especially if closures or decreases in attendance occur as a result of this global health emergency.

Upcoming Events

March 24, 3 pm - Join NEMA Executive Director Dan Yaeger for an informal session of mindfulness and self-care to help cope with the stresses and anxiety of our new reality.

Other resources
Below you will find resources created by the Alliance as well as links to other organizations' websites. Some of the topics you'll find below:

Staying up to date on overall world events related to COVID-19

Communicating about your museum's response

Promoting social justice

Find out what other museums are doing

Preparing for business continuity

Human resources related

Maintaining financial stability

We will continue to update this resource list, so please check back regularly. Any new resources will have NEW! next to it.
Have a resource to share or interested in sharing how your museum is preparing for COVID-19? Please contact our Content Team. Alliance Resources Staying up-to-date on world events Communicating about your museum's response Promoting social justice Find out what other museums Preparing for business continuity Human Resources related Maintaining financial stability Museum Studies related are doing

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
With the growing spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus) in the United States, museums must be well prepared for potential outbreaks as public spaces, employers for over 726,000 individuals, and institutions that hold significant public trust. The American Alliance of Museums has compiled this guide to help museums prepare internally and externally for outbreaks in their communities.

# data[].attributes.headline
ICOM | How to reach – and engage – your public remotely

# data[].attributes.subject
ICOM | How to reach – and engage – your public remotely

# data[].attributes.body
A short list of case studies and best practices in digital outreach that can inspire museums to deal with the actual situation

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Here's what you can do to reach - and engage - your public remotely

Although this forced isolation limits the opportunities for museums to reach their audiences, several institutions around the world are showing great creativity and resilience by harnessing the power of social media. We prepared a short list of case studies and best practices in digital outreach that can inspire museums to deal with this situation.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
How to reach - and engage - your public remotely - ICOM Italia

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Here's what you can do to reach - and engage - your public remotely Although this forced isolation limits the opportunities for museums to reach their audiences, several institutions around the world are showing great creativity and resilience by harnessing the power of social media.

# data[].attributes.body
La campagna di ICOM International

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Just one more guided tour...

The quarantine measures put in place to limit the spread of COVID-19 have led to the closing of museums in several countries around the world, forcing people to stay home for their own safety and that of others. Isolation can have serious effects on mental health, leading to a feeling of helplessness that can be very unsettling - and not enough Netflix binge-watching can solve it. However, recent studies confirm that museum visits, arts and culture can help us unwind and de-stress, distracting us from the flow of information related to the illness.

Although the quarantine limits the opportunities for museums to reach their audiences, several institutions are showing great creativity and resilience by harnessing the power of social media. And ICOM is here to help!
Is your museum organising digital outreach activities?
Let us know!
With the hashtag #MuseumsAndChill we are launching a social media campaign to promote the activities of museums that are reaching their audiences at home, and to provide other institutions with tools and ideas to do the same. Contact the ICOM Secretariat at icom.network@icom.museum to let us know how to chill together through the quarantine, and don't forget to tag us and use the hashtag when sharing your activities on social media!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Just one more guided tour... The quarantine measures put in place to limit the spread of COVID-19 have led to the closing of museums in several countries around the world, forcing people to stay home for their own safety and that of others.