What IAM does for the Illinois museum community:

• IAM is a voice with the state and national governments identifying public policy goals and objectives for the betterment of the museum community in Illinois.
• We produce an economic impact statement for the Illinois museum community
• Host of annual “Museum Day” in Springfield where museums can meet with their elected officials
• IAM's MuseNews e-newsletter, Facebook Page, and monthly Museum People Helping Museum People zoom meeting keeps members up-to-date on issues of importance to the museum community

It’s time to share our story and declare our value to our community…

Museums are institutions with stories.  Throughout American history, museums have served as a sacred public memory; preserving our material culture, remembering the past, questioning assumptions, and serving as a safe place for innovation and research. They can illuminate our past and foreshadow our future.  Museums are an essential part of society- these places matter. Period.  The story of the American museum needs your to help tell it.  You have assets to the bring to the table: your vote, access to your patrons, the jobs you support, your positive educational impact, your role as a community anchor. Don’t settle for less than you’re worth. To thrive in the 21st century, museums need to share our story with decision makers and be the source of information for them to make informed choices about current issues.