#WomenInCulture

As the first female director in the 150-year history of Manchester Museum, Esme Ward has shared some great advice for those who are trying to get involved in the heritage sector.

"The best piece of advice I can share is what guides me in my work. In all you do, notice what makes your heart beat faster. Embrace and act on it. Care and dare...”

For more advice from Esme and other inspirational #WomenInCulture have a look at our International Women’s Day story.

#SecretsMW

Tuesday is all about uncovering secrets and here is a real surprise...

On the outside it may look like a big book but open the cover and you’ll discover that it’s actually a wooden case that houses three shelves of small gold-tooled books!

This special object is known as a travelling library, and was probably commissioned by William Hakewill MP for a friend around 1617-1618. Pay a visit to Brotherton Gallery and have a look for yourself.

#PlayMW

Nothing says “play” like Shakespeare! The Play's The Thing is an interactive Royal Shakespeare Company exhibition that allows families to learn while playing. Discover stunning costumes, props and a rare copy of Shakespeare’s first folio.

Why not share what play means to you using the hashtag #PlayMW?

#RainbowMW

Thursday in Museums Week is about promoting peace and LGBTQ awareness. Pitt River Museum’s Beyond the Binary programme challenges historical interpretations by offering alternative understandings from people with different identities. This fascinating project identifies human histories that have been so far been unrepresented. Interested? Keep an eye on their special events page!

Share your colourful stories with the hashtag #RainbowMW.

#ExploreMW

Friday is all about exploring new things…

What is the strangest item you’ve seen in a museum? The frostbitten fingers of Major Michael 'Bronco' Lane may be a good example! Bronco lost his fingers and toes to frostbite on the first all-military expedition to scale Everest. They are now on display in the new Soldier Gallery at the National Army Museum.

Share your own weird and wonderful stories with us using #ExploreMW.

#PhotoMW

Saturday is photo day!

Did you know that Olive Edis was one of the most important photographers of the early 20th century? She was a versatile portrait artist, photographing different sectors of British society, from local fishermen to royalty. Some of her best work is displayed in the Ancient House Museum of Thetford Life, Norfolk.

Be like Olive and take a few snaps at your favourite museum - don't forget to share them with the hashtag #PhotoMW.

#FriendsMW

On the last day of #MuseumWeek it's time to spend time with friends.

Arts and Minds’ Arts on Prescription is a programme that in partnership with the University of Cambridge Museums has been helping people experiencing depression and anxiety. Many Arts on Prescription participants have made new friends, who they continued to visit the museums with after the course finished. Find out more about this fascinating project in our feature.