ICT History Study as Corporate Philanthropy in Latvia

Abstract

There are two ICT museums in Latvia: the Riga Technical University Telecommunications Museum and the Computing Museum of the Institute of Mathematics and Computer Science of the University of Latvia. Historical studies can be carried out at museums, institutes and universities, and professional communities. The type of history study funding can also vary. The article describes the possibilities for financing of computer museums. A comparison of museum metrics in the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands and Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia is subject to discussion. This comparison outlines the possible future museum reforms in the Baltic States. The authors review the public and private funding of museum operations. Philanthropy plays an increasing role in museum operation. Currently in Latvia, museums indirectly receive public government funding from the State Joint Stock Companies or municipalities. Private museums, corporate sponsorship and wide corporate philanthropy are the upcoming wave. ICT history studies are carried out by retired academics and authoritative engineers as volunteers. Such volunteering is the main part of developed philanthropy in Latvia. Universities play an important role in ICT history research that can be considered as one particular corporate philanthropy.