Cultural heritage preservation abroad: Development of public-private partnership

Grants received within the framework of the American Heritage Preservation Program, initiated by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and the Bank of America Charitable Foundation, will contribute to preservation of museum collections.

“At Bank of America, we have made support of the arts a high priority and a key part of serving our customers, associates, and communities. That includes honoring our cultural heritage as well as helping to sustain the arts for the future,” said Rena DeSisto, Global Arts and Heritage Executive for Bank of America. “This partnership with IMLS enables the preservation of cherished artifacts that instill pride in our communities and attest to the values this country was built upon.”

According to the heritage Health Index report, nearly 190 million objects in U.S. collections are in immediate danger of deterioration and need restoration or conservation.

Through this public-private partnership, 36 museums and 18 libraries and archives will receive individual grants to preserve treasures that convey the essential character and experience of the United States. The 54 grants totaling $156,346 are being awarded to museums, libraries, and archives to treat, re-house, and improve the storage environments of important collections.