How Did Bologna University Museums and Collections Transform?

Abstract

University museum studies often focus on contemporary attempts to reposition these institutions through broader public outreach, particularly as their conventional functions in education and research have become less central. However, the lasting effects of these reforms and their ability to remain sustainable after the early stages of implementation are still not fully understood. This study explores the administrative and institutional development of the University of Bologna’s museums and collections over more than four decades, covering the period from the late 1970s to 2015. Using a broad analytical approach, the research examines changes in institutional structure, the management of human and financial resources, museum activities, and visitor characteristics over time. The results show that the strategic vision established in the late 1970s has been difficult to sustain, mainly because of the gap between institutional aspirations and the practical resources needed to support them. Drawing on this historical evaluation, the paper identifies several future directions to improve the long-term sustainability, visibility, and relevance of university museums in both academic and public spheres.