As in other regions, the museum population of P.E.I. is to a large extent composed of volunteers. In many cases, volunteers are developing the skills and insights of professional museum personnel. These volunteers have, through their interest and dedication, become involved in the community museums which house a significant percentage of the Island's heritage collections. The Association provides these volunteers with opportunities to develop their knowledge and understanding of museums. Armed with a heightened awareness, those involved in our community museums are better able to care for their collections and interpret them to the public.
Museum professionals participating in our programs are able to upgrade and develop their skills.
Many of our programs are directed to the intermediate and advanced levels. These help professional museum personnel progress within their chosen fields of interest. By working as resource people in seminars, many museum professionals develop a familiarity with our community museums and a rapport with those who work in them. In addition to professional development, the Association serves the important function of promoting communication and cooperation within the museum community. Through our program, we have been able to both foster and support museums in the province.