Read our Mission Statement
The core of MFA is an online database of museums, which brings together information from the websites of selected cultural institutions in more than 30 European countries. The search engine, which is easy to use and adapted to different user requirements, allows potential visitors to compare information from different venues.
The aim of the database is to provide information about museums’ facilities so that potential visitors can inform and prepare themselves beforehand. This information is organised into general information for the visitor (or group), wayfinding and access issues, available multisensory experiences (visual, acoustic and tactile), and additional facilities such as childcare, free Wifi, or catering for specific dietary requirements. We also connect to the museums’ social media, online collections and visitor statistics, as well as help the institutions publish their mission statements, environmental strategies, website accessibility and Open Data policy. MFA is also a place for debate, collective reflection and knowledge sharing between professionals in culture, accessibility and Design for All. Our aim is to identify and respond to the needs and expectations of visitors, prompted by the demands of a society in constant evolution.
But many things have changed in the last years. Black Lives Matter, MeToo, Covid, to name just a few. We see the decolonialisation of museums and restitution of objects, social engagement with local communities, and more online visits than ever. Museums in Europe are taking notice of a demand for a responsible, transparent and fair relationship between the institution and its visitors. So we decided to relaunch the project in 2020/21, with a new partner, a new philosophy, and a new look.
Museum visitors (online and on site) will now be able to interact directly with the database, to rate museums, enter information, contact our team (or directly the museum) and even discuss the evaluation criteria with us. We are aware that website is not perfect yet, as we are still working on this relaunch. Yet, we are not afraid to share our vision and be open for critique, in a transparent, open and fair approach, while we are working on a common code of conduct and a responsible information culture for the participating museums.Let's make Museum for All a reality together!