The Michigan State University Museum has been awarded a significant grant of $190,132 from the Institute of Museum and Library Services as part of a nationwide initiative to improve community services in museums.This grant is part of a larger $3.3 million fund distributed among 18 projects across the country.
The awarded grant will be utilized to improve accessibility within the MSU Museum, specifically for visitors with visual impairments. This includes comprehensive training for Museum staff to better assess and enhance accessible pathways and the development of high-quality audio descriptions for interpretative and educational purposes. The project will involve a thorough evaluation of the Museum’s spaces, followed by the creation of a content delivery technology plan for galleries and the generation of audio descriptions to enrich the visitor experience.
Denice Blair, director of education at the MSU Museum, expressed enthusiasm about the grant, noting its timely alignment with the museum's ongoing renovation project. “This grant allows us to take significant steps toward making the MSU Museum more inclusive and accessible, ensuring that all visitors can fully engage with our exhibitions and programs.”
As Michigan’s first Smithsonian Affiliate, the MSU Museum is a creative and experimental space that encourages exploration and interdisciplinary dialogue. It houses three floors of special collections and changing exhibitions, offering a dynamic environment for learning and discovery.
The MSU Museum is temporarily closed for renovation and will reopen to the public in Jan. 2026. For more information, visit museum.msu.edu or contact (517) 355-2370.