MIAMI BEACH, FL (July 2, 2009)―The Wolfsonian–Florida International University (FIU) was one of thirty-five museums nationally to receive a Conservation Project Support (CPS) grant in May thanks to the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). "These museums, by preserving and conserving their collections, are ensuring the longevity of our nation's treasures for the education and enjoyment of all Americans. IMLS is proud to be a part of their efforts," notes Anne-Imelda M. Radice, PhD, director, Institute of Museum and Library Services.

The $34,718 Conservation Project Support grant makes possible an institution-wide assessment of conservation needs and priorities and the development of a strategic plan. As part of the grant, two conservators from the Williamstown Art Conservation Center will spend a week at The Wolfsonian in December reviewing the collection and will then submit a detailed report which will include conservation priorities and recommendations for the care of the collection. The conservators will also lead a one-day workshop for the museum's collection staff, providing an invaluable opportunity for in-house professional development. "This is an extremely important grant for us. The IMLS grant supports crucial assessment efforts for our conservation needs and is a prerequisite to additional funding opportunities as we formulate our long-range collections care plan and facility master plan," explains Kimberly Bergen, The Wolfsonian's senior registrar.

Conservation Project Support awards help museums identify conservation needs and priorities and perform activities to ensure the safekeeping of their collections. The grants are awarded through competitive peer review and require, at least, a 100 percent match by the applicant. These grants help museums develop a logical, institution-wide approach to caring for their collections. The program is an essential component of the Institute’s goal of sustaining cultural heritage as a means of creating and sustaining a nation of learners.

About the Institute of Museum and Library Services
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation's 122,000 libraries and 17,500 museums. The Institute's mission is to create strong libraries and museums that connect people to information and ideas. The Institute works at the national level and in coordination with state and local organizations to sustain heritage, culture, and knowledge; enhance learning and innovation; and support professional development. To learn more about the Institute, please visit http://www.imls.gov.

About The Wolfsonian–Florida International University
The Wolfsonian–FIU is a museum and research center that uses objects to illustrate the persuasive power of art and design to explore what it means to be modern, and to tell the story of social, political, and technological changes that have transformed the world. The approximately 120,000 artifacts that comprise The Wolfsonian collection range from fine art, graphic design, and political propaganda to furniture, rare books, and ephemeral materials such as postcards and travel brochures. Since opening to the public just ten years ago, The Wolfsonian has developed and disseminated critically acclaimed exhibitions, publications, and educational programs that highlight the impact of design in shaping the modern world. Its vast patrimony of primary source materials provides unparalleled opportunities for scholarship and appreciation, making it a unique resource for local, national, and international audiences.

The Wolfsonian is located at 1001 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, FL. Admission is $7 for adults; $5 for seniors, students, and children age 6 -12; and free for Wolfsonian members, State University System of Florida staff and students with ID, and children under six. The Wolfsonian, presently on a Summer Schedule through October 14, 2009, is open Thursday and Friday from noon-9pm (galleries close at 7pm on Thursday); Saturday and Sunday from noon-6pm; and is closed Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. Contact us at 305.531.1001 or visit us online at www.wolfsonian.org for further information.

The Wolfsonian–FIU receives ongoing support from the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Arts Council; the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners; the City of Miami Beach, Cultural Affairs Program, Cultural Arts Council; the Arthur F. and Alice E. Adams Foundation; William J. and Tina Rosenberg Foundation; Continental Airlines, the Official Airline of The Wolfsonian–FIU; The Miami Herald; Miami.com; Bacardi U.S.A., Inc.; Robert Mondavi Winery; and Pistils & Petals.

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