Careful reading.
Clear standards.

A clear museum connection

The journal covers museum objects, exhibitions, photographs, archives, museum-related events, and educational questions directly connected to those subjects. A broad city attraction guide is not a substitute for a museum story. Article subjects should have a documented connection rather than an assumed one.

Start with the record

Use an institution’s collection record, official exhibition material, or first-party program announcement wherever it is available. Attribute additional research to the source that supports it. A collection number, date, or maker should be included only when the relevant record actually establishes it.

Separate evidence from interpretation

Describe what can be seen, what is stated in the record, and what is an interpretation as distinct things. A worn surface may invite questions about use, but it does not establish a particular owner or event on its own. Uncertainty should remain visible in the published article.

Give events and exhibitions a time context

Identify whether coverage concerns an upcoming program, an ongoing exhibition, or a past event. Verify changing details from the organizer’s current announcement. Do not leave an expired event presented as upcoming or describe an article archive as an official booking calendar.

Respect image provenance

A caption should explain what an image shows, identify its source where appropriate, and reflect the terms under which it can be used. Do not present a generic photograph or AI-generated illustration as an authenticated museum object, actual museum interior, historical photograph, or record of a real event.

Make meaningful corrections visible

When a material factual error is identified, correct the affected passage and add an explanation that makes the change understandable. Preserve the distinction between the original publication date and a substantive update. Cosmetic edits should not be used to imply fresh reporting.

Be clear about independence

This is an independent publication about the Santa Monica History Museum. It is not affiliated with or operated by the museum, the City of Santa Monica, Los Angeles County, or any government agency. The journal does not speak for collection owners, curators, event organizers, or public agencies. Sponsorship or another material relationship must be disclosed where it affects a published article.