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Public History

A Practical Guide

  • Textbook
Public History cover

Public History

A Practical Guide

  • Textbook
Quantity
Pre-order. Available Feb 05 2026
$157.95 RRP $175.50 Website price saving $17.55 (10%)

Payment for this pre-order will be taken when the item becomes available

This title is available for exam copy requests

Description

The 3rd edition of Public History: A Practical Guide explores history in the public sphere and examines the variety of skills that historians require in the practice of public history. It discusses how through various mediums of interpretation and presentation a range of actors, which include museums, archives, government agencies, community history societies and both traditional and digital media, make history accessible to a wider audience. It provides the reader with an overview of the wider-world application and communication of history beyond the classroom through core case studies for each sector that include ideas for best practice 'in the field'.

Faye Sayer offers an accessible and engaging synopsis of a topic that has not previously been covered. By focusing on an area of study that has changed substantially in the last decade, this book presents a comprehensive outline of the practice of 'public history', and provides ideas for future methodological approaches as well as a reference point for planning professional development in order to gain future employment in these sectors.

This new edition includes:

* Two brand new chapters covering the impact and evaluation of public history and the future of public history
* Heavily updated sections on media history, digital history, teaching history and community heritage
* Many more global case studies
* Historiographic updates throughout, an updated companion website and around 20 additional images
* An enhanced online 'Public History Toolkit' resource, with information on areas like project planning and careers

In the current economic and political climate, students need to understand the potential use of history beyond university; Public History: A Practical Guide contains the tools and advice needed for them to get one step ahead in terms of knowledge, skills and experience.

Table of Contents

List of Illustrations
1. Public History: An Introduction
2. Museums, Archives, Heritage Centres and Sites
3. Methods of Communication
4. Media History: Television, Radio and Popular Publication
5. Digital Media
6. Community History
7. Teaching History
8. Restoration, Preservation and Conservation
9. Politics, Policy Makers and History
10. Evaluation and Impact of Public History
11. History and Business
12. The Future of Public History
Glossary
Notes
Bibliography
Internet Bibliography
Index

Product details

Bloomsbury Academic Test
Published Feb 05 2026
Format Hardback
Edition 3rd
Extent 448
ISBN 9781350367142
Imprint Bloomsbury Academic
Illustrations 50 bw illus
Dimensions 234 x 156 mm
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing

About the contributors

Author

Faye Sayer

Faye Sayer is Associate Professor in Heritage and…

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