Join the museum and be a part of the story

SANDPOINT — Our county. Our story. Our museum.

You belong here. Whether you are a long-time local, native, a regular visitor, or an occasional guest, Bonner County’s story — it’s history — is at least partially your story. The Bonner County History Museum’s 2019 membership campaign is inspired by the idea that a community must understand where they come from to know where they are going, museum officials said in a press release.

“We really want to emphasize inclusiveness with this campaign,” said museum director, Olivia Luther. “Our goal is to get more people invested in the stewardship and presentation of this story by joining the museum.

The benefits of belonging to the Bonner County History Museum are endless, Luther said. By buying a museum membership, you essentially become an owner of the museum and all it has to offer — including over 1 million cultural and historical artifacts. You don’t even have to be a history buff to enjoy a visit to the museum, there is literally something for everyone here. Each person’s museum experience is unique. More importantly, the museum is a space to meet with neighbors, friends, and family, to discuss thoughts and opinions, and become an active part of the community, she added.

This summer the Bonner County History Museum is offering new and updated perks. Along with the already great benefits which include 10 percent off in the gift shop, access to member only events, unlimited free admission annually, and guest passes, members will also receive a free bag of popcorn at a Movie in the Park.

But there’s more. Luther cited nine additional reasons why everyone should be part of the museum.

1. Museums make you feel good. You read that right. Recent studies show that people are happier when they spend money on experiences rather than material purchases.

2. Museums make you smarter. We’re pretty confident that it becomes nearly impossible to exit a museum without having gained any information or insight during your visit.

3. Museums provide an effective way of learning. A single visit to a museum can expose visitors to in-depth information on a subject, and the nature of the museum environment is one in which you can spend as much or as little time as you like exploring exhibits.

4. Museums are community centers. Basically, museums are a lot more than collections of artifacts.

5. Museums inspire. Need we say more?

6. Museums help bring change and development to communities. The promotion of education and the cultivation of conversation that are taking place in museums across the nation shapes and strengthens our community.

7. Museums are a great way to spend time with friends and family. A day at the museum often translates to a day spent with loved ones as fathers and mothers transform into tour guides, and the environment provides a shared learning experience.

8. Museums need your support in order to keep educating and inspiring people. Membership pays itself off in as few as three annual visits to a museum, and you can come back and visit the museum again and again all year round.

9. There is a museum close to you. Right over in Lakeview Park actually. Come join us and see what all the fuss is about.

The Bonner County History Museum is a non-profit institution built around the support of people who love their community and care about the history and culture of North Idaho.

Basic membership levels for yearly memberships are $25 for senior citizens, $30 for Individual, $40 for a couple (two people), and $50 per household (up to four people).

Information: bonnercountyhistory.org/membership