The port townsend marine science center will prototype and evaluate POP-up exhibitions to inform the development of permanent exhibits planned for its new downtown location

The Port Townsend Marine Science Center was awarded a $151,599 Project Grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) Museums for America program to prototype and evaluate pop-up exhibitions. The grant will fund the development of three temporary exhibits to test and refine the center's exhibition master plan for its new downtown location. The project aims to ensure the permanent exhibits meet community needs and resonate with visitors by engaging stakeholder groups and evaluating the prototype exhibits. It will build the center's capacity to advance knowledge and stewardship of the Salish Sea's vital marine ecosystems through engaging educational programming and exhibits.

Building upon a previous imls project to develop an exhibition master plan, this second phase will test and refine the plan to ensure IT meets community needs and resonates with visitors. The center will convene stakeholder groups to review themes and will develop and install three temporary POP-up exhibits for testing and evaluation. Staff will purchase exhibit supplies and materials, and contract with an exhibit designer and external evaluator. The project will result in deeper community engagement and expanded organizational capacity. Evaluation of prototype exhibits will ensure permanent exhibits are engaging and advance knowledge and stewardship of the vital marine ecosystems of the salish sea, benefiting the community and museum visitors.