When a survey done by the University of Minnesota Extension Center for Community Vitality compiled the first-ever list of museums in Minnesota, the numbers astounded the Minnesota Association of Museums (MAM) employees. So much so, they decided to make a smartphone application in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society.
“People are surprised by the number of museums in Minnesota,” explains Jada Hansen, vice chair for development for MAM and project manager of the app team. “When we say there are 500 museums, people think we are talking about nationwide.”
The Minnesota Museums app, available for iPhones and Android devices, allows Minnesota residents and visitors to locate museums near their location. Users can also track which museums they have visited, those they wish to frequent, upload photos and search for museums.
“For those visiting, it’s really wonderful because it makes it a lot easier to find out about the community you’re in,” Hansen says. “For those in state, it’s about opening your eyes to what’s already there all around you.
