(a) The purpose of this part is to establish guidelines for consistent hours of operation for all of the Division of Arkansas Heritage's museums.
(b)
(1) The division seeks to have its museums accredited by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM).
(2) AAM accreditation is a standards-based assessment and recognition program designed to help museums carry out their public trust, collections stewardship, and educational roles.
(3) AAM accreditation recognizes a museum's commitment to meeting standards and professional practices.
(c) The division’s museums and their exhibits should be available to the public during reasonable hours and for regular periods with appropriate standards to ensure the health, safety, and accessibility of its visitors and personnel.
(d)
(1) These guidelines set forth the minimum days/times that the division’s AAM-accredited museums and their exhibits will be open to the public: Tuesday – Friday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and extended weekday and weekend hours at the discretion of the Director of the Division of Arkansas Heritage.
(2) All sites may be closed on state holidays.
(e) The division’s nonaccredited museums and heritage sites will be open to the public during the hours designated by the director.
(f) Museum administrative offices will operate during regular state government business hours.