I really appreciate this accessibility exemption policy! My son is medically complex so we have an emergency bag with us. We call it his go-bag and it has to be with him at all times. We've had unfortunate interactions (mostly with volunteers who are unfamiliar with this situation) who insist we don't take it into the galleries. We're used to wearing it on our front, but since it's like an additional appendage at this point, we're confident wearing it on our back - which is helpful when we have to lift up our son.
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Elysian McNiff Koglmeier (she/her)
Head of Partnerships
Artwork Archive
Part Time Hours
Online: Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays
National Organization for Arts in Health (NOAH) Board Treasurer
Original Message:
Sent: 12/1/2024 1:22:00 PM
From: Rebecca Matson
Subject: RE: Backpack rules
HI!
At our museum, we have adopted an "accessibility exemption policy". If we encounter a guest who states need for access to food, water, or a backpack, we have them read the below text and sign it. We give them a non descript "pass" with a museum logo on it so guards know to allow this visitor to navigate the museum with their items. We give this same pass to VIPs (visiting curators/artists/donors) when they are in the museum with a supervising staff member and wish to carry these items. It has broadened our accessibility standards and has been helpful!
Accessibility Exemption Policy
At the Harn Museum of Art, we strive to provide an inclusive and accessible environment for all visitors. Prohibiting food, drinks, and backpacks is standard museum practice. Deviation from this standard can affect the museum's standing in the professional community or negatively impact requests for loans of artworks or exhibitions to the museum. However, we understand that some individuals may have specific needs and require certain items to ensure their comfort and accessibility during their visit. This Accessibility Exemption Policy is designed to accommodate these needs while also maintaining the safety and preservation of our artworks. We ask that you read through this policy to understand how to keep the artwork safe while also encouraging an accessible visit.
While we have a general policy of not allowing food and beverages (including water) inside the museum galleries, we recognize that some visitors may have medical or accessibility requirements that necessitate having these items with them. If you require food or beverages due to a medical condition or accessibility need, we welcome you to bring them inside the museum. However, we kindly request that you consume them with discretion, away from the artwork, and dispose of any waste appropriately.
To protect the integrity and safety of the artworks, we do not permit large backpacks or backpacks on the back inside the museum galleries. However, we understand that it may not be accessible to all visitors to wear a backpack on one shoulder. We also understand visitors may require larger bags to carry essential items such as medical equipment or personal belongings. If you need an exemption for your backpack for accessibility reasons, we welcome you to do so. We kindly request that you ensure your backpack does not obstruct pathways or pose risk to the artworks. Please be mindful and considerate while navigating through the museum.
By signing this document, you are acknowledging and accepting our Accessibility Exemption Policy. Your understanding and consideration contribute to creating an inclusive and enjoyable experience for all visitors at the Harn Museum of Art.
Signature: ___________________________________________ Date:_________
Approving Staff:_______________________________________
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Rebecca Matson
Senior Security Guard
Harn Museum of Art - University of Florida
Gainesville FL
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Original Message:
Sent: 08-24-2022 06:01 PM
From: Diane Gutenkauf
Subject: Backpack rules
As a University art museum, we see a fair number of visitors using backpacks. While we have lockers available, many students enter through one door and exit via another, making the lockers inconvenient. We do ask visitors to carry the packs on their front, instead of their back, however this raises some accessibility issues as we see some visitors struggling with the weight.
We would like to hear from other museums who have addressed this challenge and are hoping you have some insight to share. Have any of you dropped a backpack ban altogether? What was the result?
TIA,
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DIANE GUTENKAUF
Senior Assistant Director, Operations & Strategy
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
College of Fine and Applied Arts
Krannert Art Museum
500 East Peabody Drive | M/C 592
Champaign, IL 61820
217-333-3437 | dianeg3@illinois.edu
kam.illinois.edu
Under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act any written communication to or from university employees regarding university business is a public record and may be subject to public disclosure.
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