The Impact of Institute of Museum Services Grants on Botanical Gardens and Arboreta

Abstract

Congress enacted the Museum Services Act on October 8, 1976, which established the Institute of Museum Services. The purposes of the Institute are "to encourage and assist museums in themes of education program assistance and conservation of the nation’s cultural and natural resources." There is evidence that the infusion of federal funds to a segment of the museum industry classified as botanical gardens and arboreta has served as an impetus to increased donor contributions and educational program services. There are no existing impact studies to quantify or identify this grant process. This brief initial exploration of the subject offers preliminary insight and perhaps will serve as stimulus for further research and study.