Museums and Visitors: Membership issues

Brooklyn Museum has launched a variety of membership schemes, to encourage and recognise the value non-traditional membership visitors being to the Museum. Initially identifying Members as "lifelong learners...and donors, who support the museum" the families and other media visitors (eg. bloggers) who are also enthusiastic, do not join.

Whilst the cost issue was raised, the article discusses the benefits for both the institution, and the new visitor, with a new structure of membership categories. The use of social networks, blogs etc is discussed, and the influence of those media on the communication and perceived value for money of the $20 membership cost.

Given the historic patronage of the arts and culture in the UK, and the move towards HLF funded 'free' entry, should (or could) the National or local museums adopt such a scheme? The sense of belonging, possibly having an input/feedback, or receiving extra value for the membership is worth considering. Or is it? 

http://museumtwo.blogspot.com/2009/02/1stfans-audience-specific-membership.html