GOVERNORS ASSOCIATION RECOGNIZES THE ARTS AS A PUBLIC POLICY ASSET

The National Governors Association's Center for Best Practices, with research assistance from NASAA and support from the National Endowment for the Arts, has produced a series of Issue Briefs that document the value of the arts in public policy:

• Arts & the Economy: Using Arts and Culture to Stimulate State Economic Development
  In this 40-page report, governors and other state leaders will find models from states throughout the country that demonstrate the value of incorporating the arts and culture into their continuing economic development strategies. The report describes how the creative industries contribute direct economic benefits, such as generating employment and fostering tourism, and outlines ways the arts give businesses a creative edge. Learn more. Download the press release.
• Promoting Film and Media to Enhance State Economic Development
  The latest issue brief from the National Governors Association shows how states can foster thriving film, television and media arts industries. This brief summarizes the economic benefits of film production and includes examples of policies, incentives and special initiatives that states have used to attract film activity and cultivate local film and media arts assets. Learn more. Download press release.

• State Efforts to Promote Reading and Literary Activities
  The fifth issue brief from the National Governors Association showcases many strategies states use to engage communities in reading programs and literary activities. By promoting literary reading among adults, states encourage life-long learning, enhance workforce development and boost citizen involvement in civic life. Learn more. Download press release.

• The Arts Strengthen Rural Economies
  The fourth issue brief from the National Governors Association shows how states are turning to arts-based economic development strategies to revive rural economies. By tapping their distinctive cultural assets, numerous states are creating new jobs, stimulating business development, improving quality of life and attracting visitors to rural areas. Learn more. Download press release.

• Arts Help Governors Achieve Global Trade and Tourism Goals
  The third briefing from the National Governors Association illustrates how states are expanding international trade opportunities through culture. Case studies demonstrate ways that the arts encourage tourism, strengthen business networks, build "brand identity" and position states for success in a global marketplace. Learn more.

• Arts Education Improves Workforce Development and Student Success
  Second in the series, this Issue Brief shows how the arts shape the skills that 21st century employees need to succeed. "The Impact of Arts Education on Workforce Preparation" documents the positive outcomes of integrating the arts into K-12 education and youth intervention programs. Learn more. Download press release.

• The Role of the Arts in Economic Development
  First in the series, this Issue Brief reveals how the arts revitalize communities, contribute to a region's innovation habitat, and help states remain competitive in today's economy. Learn more. Download press release.

These publications are among the most popular items on the National Governors Association Web site. Each includes case studies and examples of successful programs as well as research citations and useful quotes. Supported with funding from the National Endowment for the Arts, this collaboration aims to increase understanding of the public benefits of the arts among top state officials. The arts field is using these tools to document the impact of its work and to show how the arts help states address their most pressing goals. For more information, contact Kelly Barsdate at NASAA.

Updated January 2009