(Washington, D.C.) - U.S. Senators Olympia J. Snowe (R-ME) and Susan M. Collins (R-ME) today announced that a $122,682 Museums for America grant has been awarded to the Maine Historical Society (MHS) from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The funds will be used to convert the Maine Historical Society's current card-based catalog to a digital collections management system through Maine InfoNet, a statewide, web-accessible cataloging system. The project will assist MHS with exhibit design, development of education resources, acquisitions decisions, and publications while providing the public with easy access to research collections. "It is essential to encourage life-long learning by funding and adequately equipping research institutions such as the Maine Historical Society," said Senators Snowe and Collins in a joint statement. "Maine InfoNet will serve as a valuable communication tool for Mainers, allowing them to easily access information about Maine and its history, along with current educational programs, exhibits and activities." IMLS is an independent federal agency that supports all types of museums, from art and history to science and zoos, and all types of libraries and archives, from public and academic to research and school. Museums for America Grants strengthen museums' ability to serve the public more effectively by supporting high-priority activities that advance the institution's mission and strategic goals.
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