B.C. Cultural Associations Form GLAM Partnership: Galleries, Libraries, Archives, and Museums

Three B.C. cultural associations have announced the formation of a formal partnership uniting the province’s GLAM sector (galleries, libraries, archives and museums). The associations involved are the British Columbia Museums Association (BCMA), the British Columbia Library Association (BCLA) and the Archives Association of BC (AABC).

The three groups have signed a memorandum of understanding outlining the organizations’ commitment to share expertise, embark on collaborative research projects, explore public outreach opportunities and identify joint funding ventures to strengthen the sector. This partnership is a historic event, first among the provinces. 

Minister Peter Fassbender joined the partners at Surrey City Centre Library for the event. Fassbender said that the collaboration between these cultural assets would "strengthen our social, cultural and economic well-being, and enhance the quality of life for British Columbians.”

David Alexander, President of the BC Museum Association, highlighted the similar role GLAM organizations play as "memory institutions," to "preserve and share knowledge and culture, and act as a spark for creation, understanding and connection.”

The partners' goals for 2017 are to work together on a symposium for GLAM organizations, and establish a new award to acknowledge and celebrate exceptional professionals and projects in the GLAM sector.