Defining the micromuseum from curators’ perspectives

Abstract

This study aims to establish a basic definition for micromuseums. Research was conducted among twenty-one micromuseums on eight Mediterranean islands guided by semi-structured interviews with curators of independent, private, and state micromuseums on the Maltese Islands, the Ragusan Province of Sicily, and other islands for comparative purposes. All gathered information was analysed, and the findings indicate that there are specific factors which contribute to defining a micromuseum and differentiate it from traditional establishment museums. In comparison to earlier literature on micromuseology, the study revealed that micromuseums, among other characteristics, focus on specific themes and collections not typically found in larger museums, operate with minimal visibility, have staff members who perform multiple roles, cater to niche audiences, employ curators who are experts in their field, and prioritize interactions between curators and visitors.