Network Directory

Development began in 1996 on a key element of the Museum Loan Network: the MLN Directory. Its primary goal is to create a practical means of indentifying art and objects of cultural heritage available for long-term loan. Many of these objects are included in the directory as a result of survey grants awarded to institutions. Institutions may also request that their objects be included within the data base without receiving a survey grant.

The MLN utilizes standards already developed in the field to promote compatibility. Both the Categories for the Description of Works of Art, a combined initiative of the Getty Art History Information Project and the College Art Association, and the Art and Achitecture Thesaurus play a major role. The technological components of the database were developed at MIT's Academic Media Production Services.

By bringing to the public information about objects that have been lying in collection storage, the directory not only helps to bring these objects into public view, but provides important new information about collections that will aid in their research.

The intent of the MLN Directory is to provide information on art and objects of cultural heritage available for long-term loan; therefore access to the database will be limited to those museums who are eligible to participate in the MLN. At the present time, this includes only museums in the United States who meet the MLN eligibility requirements. If you are interested in gaining access to the Directory, please contact the Museum Loan Network.

Images and textual content on the MLN Directory are strictly for educational and research purposes.