On 19 August, the NSC Alliance wrote to Ms. Susan Hildreth, Director of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), about the strategic planning efforts her agency is currently undergoing. The letter highlighted the important role that collections play in our nation’s research enterprise, and called for increased IMLS involvement in several areas.
“As an important federal partner to museums, IMLS should provide financial support, training opportunities, and other resources to assist with the digitization of U.S. based scientific collections,” states the letter. “The IMLS should also help natural history museums develop and implement disaster and safety plans that will safeguard collections and protect museum personnel and visitors in the event of a catastrophic event.”