Conference Activities

Professional Development

Each year the NMPS strives to offer industry-relevant, thought-provoking panels and presentations designed to further the conversation on the ever-evolving mission and strategies of museum publishing today. We foster these conversations in a variety of formats, including those discussed below.

Breakout sessions allow attendees to choose the session that’s right for them. Topics range from shoestring publishing to managing multi-team work streams.

Plenary sessions focus on topics relevant to the entire field of publishing today.

Invited experts lead our two Keynote Presentations, designed to entertain and educate.

Case studies from fellow professionals at the Lightning Session generate shared industry knowledge. Lightning Session presentations were chosen from public submissions, and represent case studies from museums and institutions across the globe. This fast-paced presentation format is designed to encourage cross-organizational connections.

Make new connections or strengthen existing ones with vendors and service providers in our Exhibitor Gallery.

Extra Credit: Register for Museum Publishing 101 to learn or brush up on the basics. Designed for early-career professionals or those new to the field, the Museum Publishing 101 Workshop is designed to be a primer on publishing today. Workshop sessions are led by committee members, representing top talent from museums across the globe. Resources and educational materials provided to all registrants. Separate registration required.

Networking and Social Activities

Dinners with Colleagues: Sign up in advance for a small dinner led by one of our committee members at a local restaurant. These dinners are designed to help attendees get to know each other in a casual setting. Sign up lists will be available at the registration desk the first day of the conference. Get to know your fellow colleagues and taste some local cuisine. Pay your own way.

Mentorship Network: The NMPS introduced the mentorship network in 2018, and more than 50 individuals participated. We’re hoping to top that number in 2020. Registered attendees of the conference have the option to join the mentorship network as a mentor (>5 years experience in the field) or mentee (<5 years experience in the field). Find your match via our questionnaire, and meet up before the conference to discuss your shared interests.

Hotel Reception: Meet the exhibitors and your fellow attendees in our kick off celebration following the keynote presentation and welcome.

Museum Reception: Travel to the Art Institute of Chicago for a private reception and gallery viewing with Art Institute staff to lead the way.

Field Trip: Sign up in advance to join our optional Sunday Field trip to a local museum or cultural center. Field trip destinations are chosen for their innovation in publishing, communication, and/or exhibition strategies. Attendees should expect to hear from organization staff on their process and execution with respect to contemporaneous exhibitions and programs.

Breakfast offerings, coffee breaks, the Sponsors Lunch, and intermittent snacks provide extra opportunities to connect with your fellow conference attendees.