When planning a visit to a museum, one crucial question is often in the minds of many people with disabilities: Is this museum accessible? The significance of this question cannot be overstated. If a museum isn’t accessible, visiting it could turn out to be a frustrating, if not entirely wasted, experience. Conversely, if it is accessible but this information isn’t readily available, potential visitors might miss out on a wonderful opportunity.

It’s essential to understand that the accessibility of a museum is not a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ matter. Most museums fall somewhere in between.

The Gray Area of Museum Accessibility

Determining whether a museum is accessible goes beyond checking if it meets legal requirements. A museum might check all the legal boxes yet fail to provide a great experience for visitors with disabilities. Or, some museums might offer a fantastic experience but fall short in some legal aspects. This gray area makes it challenging for visitors to gauge the true accessibility of a museum.

What makes a museum accessible?

There are books and articles written about this matter, and it is impossible to answer it in a few sentences, but let me give you a few pointers:

Keep in mind that what’s accessible for one, may not be accessible for the other. A couple of examples, having to walk up steps may not be a problem for a blind person, but it maybe the end of the trip for a wheel chair user. However, while a wheelchair user would be able to enjoy artifacts behind glass, it is meaningless for a blind person.

So, it does make sense to examine different disabilities and determine if there is enough to do in a museum.

But what is enough?

This is also a difficult question, especially if a museum is only partially accessible. I would call an exhibit an inclusive experience if there is enough things to do and learn for people with disabilities, something that is comparable to the amount of what non-disabled people would do during an average visit. So for example if the average person spends an hour in a museum, there should be enough things to do for an hour for someone who is blind. But it does matter what type of things, it has to be in the spirit and mission of the organization, not just anything.

The Problem with Accessibility Information

One of the major issues is the lack of detailed accessibility information on museum websites. While some museums might have an ‘Accessibility’ page, often these pages are not comprehensive. They might do the bare minimum, merely checking off the ‘accessibility box’ without providing the specifics that potential visitors need. This lack of detailed information is a significant barrier. Personally, I find myself writing to each museum I plan to visit, inquiring about their accessibility features, simply because I wasted many hours going to museums where I had nothing to do. But it is also true that there were many museums, where I didn’t think they would have enough to touch, yet, after writing to them, I found that they were a great place to visit, and I would have missed out if I didn’t ask.

What Can You Do at your museum?

Spread Awareness

The first step in addressing this issue is to raise awareness. Museums need to understand the importance of providing detailed accessibility information. This is not just about meeting legal requirements but about genuinely catering to the needs of all visitors.

Think Inclusively

Museums should consider all major disabilities when planning their facilities and services. They need to provide clear, detailed information on how their venue caters to different needs. Whether it’s wheelchair accessibility, services for the visually or hearing impaired, or considerations for those with cognitive disabilities, this information should be readily available and easy to understand.

Honesty is the Best Policy

Lastly, honesty is crucial. If certain areas of a museum are not accessible, it’s better to clearly state this upfront. Visitors with disabilities appreciate transparency, as it helps them plan their visit accordingly and avoids disappointment.

Conclusion

Accessibility in museums should not be an afterthought but a priority. It’s about inclusivity and providing an equal opportunity for everyone to experience culture and history. Museums need to step up, providing detailed, honest information about their accessibility features.

Would you like to better understand if your museum is accessible, or how you can improve its accessibility? Drop me a line and I’ll help you create a plan to be more inclusive to all people.