By Maureen Drucker

One of the responsibilities of docents is identified in the Safety Procedure Manual as “protection of the art, including assisting visitors to view the art and learn about it in a safe and responsible manner.” While we all strive to enhance every guest’s enjoyment of their time at the museum, initially advising them of the protocol in the galleries is an important step toward protecting the art.

The general rules or “no-nos” include no touching the art, no running or horseplay, no food or drink, no pens or markers, no leaning on walls, furniture or railings, no cameras or video equipment, no cell phone usage, no backpacks or large packages, and no closer than an “arm’s length” are all relatively well understood by visitors.

There are some rules that are not so well understood – by either docents or visitors. One of these areas relates particularly to children and their parent or guardian. Children under twelve must be accompanied at all times, ratios of one adult to five children and one adult to ten teenagers are recommended. No baby bottles or sipper cups are to be held by an infant or child. Bottles must always be held by the adult. No oversized, jogging, or empty strollers, or backpack carriers are permitted in the galleries at any time. Children are not to be carried on the shoulders of an adult.

Adults on tour are not permitted to sit on the floor at any time, while children may be directed to sit on the floor while learning about an object. Individuals with prior permission form the Curatorial Department may sit to sketch. Such requests are reviewed on a case by case basis. In general, if you have any questions about gallery protocol for a given situation, the security staff is always willing to answer questions or assist as requested.