Opening up museums and galleries
An advice guide for museums and galleries about how to ensure collections and exhibitions in museums and galleries are accessible to blind and partially sighted people is now available from RNIB.
The book entitled 'Shifting perspectives' features information on how organisations can adapt their services and facilities to meet the needs of blind and partially sighted people.
RNIB's CultureLink project worked with seven museums in the West Midlands to produce the guide. Museum staff consulted directly with blind and partially sighted visitors to identify key aspects of their services and facilities that can be adapted to meet their needs.
'Shifting perspectives' includes tips on audio describing exhibits, marketing events for blind and partially sighted people and making information accessible, as well as how to create tactile images and touch tours.
The guide also documents case studies and personal anecdotes on how other organisations have benefited from this advice and put them into practice.
''Shifting Perspectives' second edition (product code: PR12349P) costs £7.99 inc VAT, is now available to buy through the RNIB helpline on 0303 123 9999 or online at the RNIB shop
Key advice for museums and galleries
'Shifting perspectives' identifies ways in which museums and galleries can provide a high quality service to visitors with sight problems. These key points provide an overview of good practice.
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Ensure that your premises are accessible.
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Provide inspiring training for your staff to meet the needs of blind and partially sighted people.
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Provide accessible information on the layout of your premises, to ensure that people can visit your venue independently.
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Produce information in a range of accessible formats.
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Make sure your website is accessible to people with sight problems.
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Develop innovative activities that bring your collections to life.
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Develop and evaluate your service in collaboration with blind and partially sighted people.
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Open up opportunities for blind and partially sighted people to get involved as volunteers.
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Promote your services so people with sight problems know what is available.
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Identify the benefits of intellectual access for all.
Inspire Mark - inspired by London 2012
CultureLink is part of the inspirational London 2012 Cultural Olympiad. Funding is currently being sought to continue the project in other areas of the UK.
The CultureLink project has already received the Inspire Mark accreditation for projects inspired by the hosting of the London 2012 Games. Supported by the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA), CultureLink aims to ensure that blind and partially sighted people can play an active part in the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad by increasing access to activities at museums and galleries in the long term.
Further information
For further information on the project contact RNIB by email at helpline @rnib.org.uk
Supported by the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA), Renaissance West Midlands