Blog and Newsletter

The Association of Maine Archives and Museums publishes quarterly print newsletter that is sent out to members in February, May, August, and November. We also maintain the blog on this page for members to share their announcements more immediately.

Quarterly Print Newsletter

Submissions: If you are a member interested in submitting articles, dispatches, opportunities, and/or photos to the print newsletter, please review these guideline and deadlines.

Advertising: If you are interested in advertising in the print newsletter, please review these specifications and deadlines.

Read now: Click here to view the current and past issues of the print newsletter (members-only; log in first).

News Blog

Members and non-members of MAM may post news of interest to the field using the blog below. To post an event, see the event listings. To post a job or internship opportunity, see the job/internship board. MAM reserves the right to edit or reject postings as it deems appropriate. This service is free to members; non-members are charged $20.

Posts to this news blog are automatically shared to the MAM Facebook page to get even more exposure!

MEMBERS: Log in, then click "Add Post." If you have trouble logging in, email info@mainemuseums.org.

NON-MEMBERS: To submit your bulletin board post, please email info@mainemuseums.org.

  • 13 May 2015 9:00 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    Freeport Historical Society

    Office Manager

    ·         Part-time, 32 hrs/week May-October; 24 hours per week November-April

    ·         $11/hour

    Freeport Historical Society (FHS) is seeking applicants for the position of office manager.  The position will be part-time, with an increased schedule during the summer months.

    The Office Manager reports to the FHS Executive Director and assists both the Executive Director and Collections Manager in a variety of administrative duties, including:

    ·         Working with volunteers

    ·         Greeting visitors

    ·         Arranging logistical details for public events

    ·         Ordering office supplies

    ·         Maintaining accurate records and databases.

    Successful applicants will possess:

    ·         Proven experience providing excellent customer service

    • Familiarity with Microsoft Office applications, especially Access, plus QuickBooks. 
    • Comfort with working in the digital world of the modern office. 
    • Experience handling phones and other office machinery
    • An ability to multi-task
    • The ability to work a flexible schedule as needed, including some weekends.
    • A current, valid driver’s licence

    A bachelor’s degree and an interest in history are preferred.

    The Freeport Historical Society is a non-profit organization in Freeport, Maine dedicated to preserving the town’s past and keeping that past alive in the present.  The Society is a vibrant organization with a key role in the local community.

    For more information, consult the FHS website, www.freeporthistoricalsociety.org or call 207-865-3170.  A resume and cover letter should be sent to director@freeporthistoricalsociety.org.

    Closing date for applications: June 2, 2015


  • 12 May 2015 2:50 PM | Anonymous member

    The successful Development Associate will have a genuinely outgoing personality and a sense of humor.  S/he should promote the mission and programs of the Museum and be a good team player.  S/he will be computer savvy, highly organized, able to multi-task and meet deadlines, and able to create and maintain exemplary filing systems and records.  As the first face and/or voice most visitors and donors will encounter with the Museum, the Associate is expected to be community-oriented with an eye toward the development of the membership, visitation, and financial aspects of the Museum.
    Responsible for maintaining and initiating all development records including those pertaining to Membership, Annual fund and Capital Campaign drives. The position is critical to the success of all fundraising endeavors. Knowledge of standard office computer software, spreadsheets, and the use of social media is extremely important. This position requires a willingness to acquire proficiency with PastPerfect, the current development software program in use by the Brick Store Museum.

    This position is a part-time (24 hours per week) position with starting hourly wage of $14.25 per hour. The Development Associate may work additional hours during weekends and weeknights, depending on the Museum’s event staffing needs. This position is a term appointment for one-year, with the possibility of renewal after that term.

    The position has several components:

    DEVELOPMENT

    ·         Enter all new memberships and renewal information. Generate membership cards and thank you letters.  

    ·         Enter all donations as they are received and generate thank you letters appropriate for the level of giving and personalized to the specific donor. 

    ·         Record gifts of cash and checks for the bookkeeper. Make deposits as necessary—usually weekly.

    ·         Generate reports and current data to use as tools in all membership drives and fundraising efforts.

    ·         Assist in creating and implementing fundraising and capital campaign events throughout the year.

    ·         Be an active participant in the Museum’s grant-writing and grant opportunity identification.

    PUBLIC PROGRAMS

    Assist the Director and staff in planning, publicizing, and implementing public programs, group tours and special events.   This includes being available for occasional after-hours programs. 

    OFFICE SUPPORT

    General office support includes greeting visitors, answering phones, and maintenance of office supplies as needed.

    Qualifications:

    Bachelor’s degree in museum studies, business, finance, or related field; or related work experience. Excellent organizational and communication skills; knowledge of computer databases, and scanning. Experience in nonprofit development and knowledge of PastPerfect preferred.

    Work Environment:

    Work is performed under typical office conditions in the museum.  The Development Associate must be familiar with the operation of typical office computer systems and devices, telephones, standard office equipment, and copier/scanners. The work may involve exposure to dust and the ability to lift boxes up to 40 pounds. Noise level is quiet, except for routine interactions during the work day.

     To apply: Please send your cover letter and resume to Cynthia Walker, Executive Director, at edirector@brickstoremuseum.org. (or via mail to 117 Main Street, Kennebunk, ME 04043) by May 27, 2015.


  • 06 May 2015 9:27 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)
    DEVELOPMENT AND COMMUNICATIONS ASSISTANT

    http://mainehumanities.org/uncategorized/now-hiring-development-and-communications-assistant/

    GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF RESPONSIBILITIES

    The Maine Humanities Council (MHC) is a Portland-based nonprofit organization that serves the state of Maine. Our mission is to enrich the lives of people in Maine through literature, history, philosophy, and culture with programs, events, grants, and online resources that encourage critical thinking and conversation across social, economic, and cultural boundaries. Our work connects people through the power and pleasure of ideas, reaching audiences of all economic backgrounds in ways that make a significant difference in their lives.

    The MHC is seeking a full-time Development and Communications Assistant to provide support for the fundraising and communications efforts of the organization. In that capacity, this individual will assist with responsibilities that include:

      *   Performing gift entry and acknowledgement process and assist with solicitation process
      *   Assist with prospect research
      *   Assist with preparation for and execution of special fundraising events
      *   Assist with writing stories for fundraising publications; write blog posts and daily social media posts
      *   Assist with board alumni "friendraising" and fundraising efforts
      *   Perform website updates and handle social media schedules
      *   Draft and send press releases
      *   Execute marketing and publicity plans for programs and events
      *   Create postcards for MHC events as needed

    The ideal candidate will have:

      *   Excellent organizational, communications, and interpersonal skills
      *   The ability to meet deadlines and maintain organized records with high level of accuracy in a fast-paced environment
      *   Superior attention to detail
      *   Sensitivity to confidential information required
      *   Strong writing skills and the ability to adopt different styles depending on needs
      *   Proficiency in Microsoft (Word, Excel, Outlook) and database software (Filemaker)
      *   Familiarity with content management systems for websites (WordPress)
      *   Familiarity with social media and online communication tools
      *   Strong interest in the humanities

    Basic graphic design skills (Photoshop, Adobe InDesign) and familiarity with an email marketing service (MailChimp) are desired. A Bachelor's Degree is preferred.

    The salary for this position is $25,000 with a benefit package.

    To apply, please send a résumé, cover letter, writing sample, and three references to info@mainehumanities.org<mailto:info@mainehumanities.org>. Applications due by 5 pm on Wednesday, May 20th.


  • 06 May 2015 9:21 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)
    Just in time for Preservation Week 2015, NEDCC is pleased to announce the newly revised and expanded version of Preservation 101: Preservation Basics for Paper and Media Collections. This free resource provides a basic introduction to the concepts and standards used to build an effective preservation program.


    The new edition includes expanded information on caring for audiovisual collections, digital preservation and copyright, and emergency management, and includes activities and readings designed to aid institutions and private individuals performing their own preservation planning. Preservation 101 has a long history as an authoritative and succinct reference for professionals, students, and individuals.

    The freely available Preservation 101 textbook is the foundation for NEDCC's interactive online course on general preservation topics. A series of 10 live webinars builds on self-paced study, using assigned readings and other resources to supplement classroom discussion.

    LEARN MORE ABOUT PRESERVATION 101: http://bit.ly/pres101enews


  • 06 May 2015 8:49 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    We Are the Champions:  Making the Case for Your Collections, Programs, and Profession

    Maine Archives & Museums 2015 Fall Conference & Annual Meeting

    Lewiston-Auburn College, University of Southern Maine, Lewiston |  Friday, October 2, 2015

    Call for Proposals

      Deadline: June 5, 2015

    Submit a Proposal Online

    All of us who work for and volunteer at collecting institutions engage almost daily in the work of advocacy: promoting our collections and programs to stakeholders and new audiences, explaining to potential funders what vital services we provide to our communities, and working with our elected representatives on issues that impact our institutions and the populations we serve. MAM members are key advocates for collecting institutions in the state of Maine—We are the champions of Maine’s museums and archives!

    This year’s MAM conference will focus on the many shapes advocacy takes in Maine’s collecting institutions, celebrating what we do well and seeking ways to do better. What are some ways you have advocated for your institution, or for collecting institutions writ large, in recent years? When it comes to legislation, how do you navigate the political arena? What has been an especially effective way you have championed your collections or programs? What does it mean to be an advocate for Maine’s museums and archives? How do we advocate for ourselves, our positions, and our careers?

    The 2015 MAM conference will offer a mixture of sessions, workshops, networking opportunities, and a dynamic keynote address that will leave you feeling recharged, connected, and inspired with new ideas to assist you in the care and management of your collecting institution.

    MAM is seeking qualified presenters to submit session proposals that fit this theme and advance MAM’s mission to support and promote Maine’s collecting institutions.  Session proposals will be considered in the following formats:

    • Panel Sessions—One hour and fifteen minute session block with two or more presenters discussing a topic that can inform or inspire participants in their work.
    • Workshops—One hour and fifteen minute block with one or more presenters offering hands-on opportunities for skill building.
    • Poster Exhibits—Display material presenting a project or exhibit that your institution would like to share with a larger audience that has relevance to the field at large.

    The Program Committee seeks proposals that will inspire organizations of various sizes and disciplines and are especially visionary.  Case studies will be considered, but proposals that are clearly more applicable to the field at large will have priority.  Topics may include but are not limited to:

    • Attracting new volunteers, trustees and members
    • Working with legislators and local governments
    • Case statements and other fundraising appeals
    • Effective marketing initiatives
    • Grant-writing
    • Youth initiatives
    • Innovative educational or interpretive programming
    • Career Enrichment & Professional Development

    For more information or to submit a session proposal, please complete the attached form and e-mail it with resumes for all speakers to info@mainemuseums.org or send it to PO Box 46, Cumberland Center, ME 04021. Proposals will be reviewed in early June and applicants will be notified by late June/early July about whether their proposal was accepted.


    Please note:  MAM is unable to offer stipends, honorarium or travel reimbursement to presenters.  Presenters who plan to attend other sessions during the conference must register and will receive the discounted Early Bird MAM member rate.


    For a hard copy paper form to submit via mail, email info@mainemuseums.org or call 207.400.6965



    Watch your mail and email for additional conference details. Additional information will also be available via Facebook and MAM’s website at www.mainemuseums.org.  Questions?  Email: info@mainemuseums.org or phone 207.400.6965.


  • 05 May 2015 9:30 AM | Anonymous member

    Congresswoman Chellie Pingree Invites You
    to Her Federal Grants Workshop for Maine Cultural Organizations



    Tuesday, May 5, 9:30-11:30 a.m. 
    (Doors open at 9)

    Governor Hill Mansion
    136 State Street Augusta

    • Meet representatives from the National Endowment for the Arts, National Endowment for the Humanities, and the Institute of Museum and Library Services
    • Hear about federal grant opportunities for library, arts, and humanities projects
    • Learn how to make your application as competitive as possible
    • Free admission
    • Coffee and pastries served

    Please register by Friday, May 1, by emailing Andrew.Colvin@mail.house.gov.



  • 15 Apr 2015 2:54 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)
    Penobscot Marine Museum is seeking an Assistant Store Manager for the 2015 season, mid-May

    to late October. This position will handle daily museum operations including admissions,

    museum shop and membership sales, security, light housekeeping, and opening and closing the

    museum. The Assistant Store Manager will be the lead staff person on weekends working with

    museum interpreters to ensure the smooth operation of the museum, including answering

    questions, directing inquiries to the correct department and managing the security system.

    Position Description and Responsibilities include:

     assist visitors

     sell admission tickets

     promote membership

     operate cash register

     provide general information about the museum to visitors

     straighten and refill merchandise

     light cleaning

    Qualifications

    Ideal candidates possess:

     excellent public speaking skills

     mature and outgoing personality; must love talking with people!

     self-starter

     ability to solve problems independently

     interest in education, history, or museums

     outstanding customer service skills

     ability to work in a fast-paced team environment and manage several tasks

    simultaneously

     reliability and professional appearance

    Previous experience in retail or customer service preferred. The position is part time seasonal

    and does not include benefits. The work schedule will vary in accordance with the program

    schedule and will include weekends and holidays.

    PMM is dedicated to preserving, interpreting and celebrating the maritime culture of the

    Penobscot Bay Region and beyond through collections, education and community engagement.

    The Museum houses superb collections of marine art, historic boats, scrimshaw, ship models and

    19th export items as well as over 100,000 historic photographs. Our seaport village campus

    comprises a National Register of Historic Places district along with modern purpose-built exhibit

    and storage facilities. Museum programs take place year round, with the busiest time being mid-

    May to Mid-October when the campus is open to the public.

    To apply for this position, please submit a cover letter, resume, and a list of three professional

    references to, Assistant Store Manager Search, Penobscot Marine Museum, PO Box 498,

    Searsport, ME  04974 or via email to skettell@pmm-maine.org.


  • 15 Apr 2015 2:53 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)
    Museum Programs Interns, Paid

    Job Description: The Penobscot Marine Museum seeks two gregarious and motivated interns with a love of history to work for eight weeks from mid-June to mid-August, 18 to 22 hours per week which will include some nights and weekends. The interns will facilitate public programs and workshops for adults and children for the exhibit “Exploring the Magic of Photography”. Interns will learn about the history of photography, how to make cyanotypes and pinhole cameras, and basic preservation and archiving practices. Interns will also serve as guides/interpreters for the walk-in camera obscura. Some projects may be customized based on the student’s interest.

    Qualifications: Applicants pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees in education, history, library science, American studies, archiving/museum studies and other related subjects are encouraged to apply. Basic knowledge of photography and photographic processes is helpful but not necessary.

    Submit resume, cover letter and three references to Cipperly Good, Penobscot Marine Museum, P.O. Box 498, Searsport, ME 04974


  • 13 Apr 2015 10:40 AM | Anonymous member

    Sign Up for the next Connecting to Collections Care webinar on museum
     environments, its free!

    “When Less is All You Got! Budget-conscious solutions to protect collections
     on display and in storage”

    April 21, 2015, 2:00 – 3:30, EDT, with Ernest Conrad and Lisa Mibach.

    In an ideal world, all buildings that house and display collections would have
     purpose-designed environmental control systems that work, enclosed display
     cases, chemically-neutral storage and display cases and containers, and enough
     trained staff to care for collections. Unfortunately, this is not always the
     case.

        The first part of the webinar will illustrate the diagnostic effects of the
     lack of environmental controls, and will discuss budget-conscious solutions to
     protect collections on display and in storage. The second part will deal with
     proper storage and display conditions so that objects can weather minor
     disruptions. If you don’t have ideal storage and display conditions, you
     need to have regularly updated priority lists of objects (in order of
     vulnerability) to check during/after an environmental failure or change.

            http://www.connectingtocollections.org/when-less-is-all-you-got/

             Check the Calendar for more upcoming events.

             Connecting to Collections Care is sponsored by the Foundation of the American
     Institute for Conservation with funding from the Institute of Museum and
     Library Services.

     

  • 10 Apr 2015 7:24 PM | Anonymous member

    The Maine State Museum in Augusta, Maine is advertising a full-time Museum Education Specialist II position.  The Maine State Museum is currently open five days a week; the position would be required to work some weekend and evening hours. The position is responsible for developing and implementing innovative, engaging, and relevant gallery experiences for a wide range of visitors.  This position assists in training staff and volunteers; assists with the day-to-day operations of the museum public spaces and admission desk; and the development of special event.  A well-qualified candidate is proficient in interdisciplinary, object-based teaching as well as interpretive writing, curriculum development, and the design of hands-on activities; knowledgeable of current inquiry-based pedagogy and teaching strategies; and has an interest in digital technologies and media for use in online and in-house interpretative projects.  Individuals with a natural science and/or STEM backgrounds are especially encouraged to apply.  For additional information about the position, as well as additional representative tasks, knowledge, and skills required, visit the General Government Service Center website at http://www.maine.gov/fps/opportunities/ and click on the position “Museum Education Specialist II Full-Time (40 hours weekly).” Qualified candidates should send a resume, direct hire application, and letter of interest to Tammy Sturtevant, HR Generalist, General Gov. Service Center, 74 State House Station, Augusta, Maine 04333-0074, (207) 624-7415 or email applications to dafsdirecthire@maine.gov by April 24, 2015. Direct Hire applications are available at the General Government Service Center in Augusta, all Maine Career Center Offices, and on the General Government Service Center website.

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P.O. Box 95, Portland, Maine 04112

info@mainemuseums.org 


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