Thriving in the Knowledge Age: New Business Models for Museums and Other Cultural Institutions [Paperback]

In Thriving in the Knowledge Age, John Falk and Beverly Sheppard argue that museums require a radically new business model to survive the transition into the knowledge age. Only by shifting towards more personalized and community-based learning experiences can museums reverse the declining attendance figures of the twenty-first century. Written to provide clear answers to fundamental questions about the purpose and goals of the museum of the future, this visionary book is a must-have for museum professionals and trustees.John Falk is internationally known for his investigations and writings about free-choice learning including Learning from Museums (AltaMira Press, 2000) and Lessons without Limit: How Free-Choice Learning is Transforming Education (AltaMira Press, 2002). Prior to founding and directing the Institute for Learning Innovation, he held several senior positions at the Smithsonian Institution including Director, Smithsonian Office of Educational Research and Associate Director, Smithsonian Environmental Research Center. Falk serves on the national board of the National Postal Museum, the editorial board of the journals Curator, Journal of Museum Education and Science Education, and is a member of several national advisory commissions. Beverly Sheppard assumed the position of President and CEO of Old Sturbridge Village in June 2002. Sheppard is the author of two publications referred to widely in the museum field: Building Museum and School Partnerships and Museums, Libraries and the 21st Century Learner, both of which address the educational mission of museums and the strengthening of that mission through collaboration.

A most valuable read for those concerned about America's museums and cultural institutions, willing to confront realities, and uncertain what to do, and for those adventuring beyond traditional fundamentals of the model. Falk and Sheppard will challenge your thinking and give you ideas galore. Frederick T. Miller, President, The Chalc