Hats, caps, and headdresses: headpieces from around the world

In the past 20 years, the Internet has become one of the most important tools for Americans in everyday life. The increase usage of the Internet has made it imperative for museums, of all sizes, to not just look into, but to use the Internet as a source for sharing information. In recent years, developments in technology, software, and online programs have made it much easier and cost effective for small museums to venture into the World Wide Web and create state-of-the art websites, online exhibitions, and interactives. Sharing information and providing another source of education outside of the museum’s four walls are in line with the ideals of critical museum theory, which champions the engagement and development of visitor relationships through transparency, democracy, and communication. In order to show that it is possible for small museums to create online exhibitions, this thesis project oversaw the development and completion of Hats, Caps, and Headdresses: Headpieces from around the World, an exhibit on various headpieces from for the Valene L. Smith Museum of Anthropology. The pieces used in this online exhibition were from the CSU, Chico anthropology department. By applying the case study of the Valene L. Smith Museum of Anthropology, this thesis project aims to show how small museums can create online exhibits with minimal cost through the use of inexpensive programs and user friendly tools and technologies. Through the completion of this project, this thesis proposes that small museums should not neglect the tools available to them online because the opportunity to create programs and engage with the public through shared information is too great to be ignored.