Publication of The Museum Definition Handbook: Words Inspiring Action

We are pleased to announce the publication of the Museum Definition Handbook: Words Inspiring Action, an ICOM Define publication written by Bruno Brulon Soares and Lauran Bonilla-Merchav.

The new museum definition, adopted by ICOM in 2022, is a valuable professional tool used by museum workers, policymakers and communities. The Museum Definition Handbook addresses and analyses each term that appears within the definition, building on reflections surrounding their meanings and significances that emerged during the participatory ICOM Define process.
We hope this handbook will offer deeper insights and guidance on implementing these concepts in museum work.

This publication is available in ICOM's three official languages:

English version

French version

Spanish version

Thanks to the efforts of Mr. Ech-cherki Dahmali, President of ICOM Arab, this publication is also available in Arabic. This is a significant contribution in the context of ICOM Dubai 2025. We hope that this translation will enrich dialogue with museum professionals in the region.

Arabic version