[MSN] comments

[MSN]

In the article (MSN March 28, 2008) which begins "Museum atmosphere affects 
enjoyment and education of visual art. Museums need to accept the risks 
associated with taking their collections out to people," the un-named author takes 
exception to the presence of security guards whom he complains are "inattentive 
and intrusive."  He goes on to tout an advertisement for guards at a Houston 
museum, where the hourly rate is $7.00.  He then makes an all-encompassing 
offensive statement, "Security guards provide a false sense of security to the 
institution.  Physically, 90% of them couldn't stop a determined burglar. The 
lack of
attention displayed will not stop someone who is planning to touch, kiss, 
smell, or photograph an artwork. (If the photographer uses a flash it may wake up 
the guard.)" 

Apparently this nameless (perhaps spineless) author spends a considerable 
amount of time observing security in a number of institutions, instead of 
observing the art.  If he were truly interested in improving protection of the art, 
he might talk to management about providing a living wage for those charged 
with its care, offering professional and consistent training, and giving some 
incentive for good performance.  He might also try standing for eight hours in a 
confined space, dealing with sometimes unruly children, others intent on 
violating clearly defined rules, or putting up with arrogant critics too 
self-absorbed in their own importance to properly assess the situation.

Granted, some security officers are poorly trained, others, poorly managed.  
But don't paint the profession with a broad brush of incompetence.  How about 
some credit for the numerous professionals who spend their entire working life 
dedicated to protecting our nation's treasures?  There is certainly room for 
improvement.  Rash statements from uninformed critics are not helpful.  If 
you're truly concerned about the level of protection in any institution, don't 
broadcast your misconceived notions to the public.  Contact the institution 
directly so that they might have a reasonable opportunity to address and correct a 
problem situation.  - STEVE LAYNE, Museum Security Consultant