Volunteers play an increasing role in the development of Chinese museums, as their professional service, such as guided tours, are required to meet the demands of a growing base of regular museum-goers in the country.

The National Art Museum of China, one of the most important cultural landmarks in Beijing, held a meeting with dozens of its registered volunteers to see how volunteer service at the capital's museum can better cater to visitors from across the country and outside China.

Wu Weishan, director of the National Art Museum, especially thanked volunteers for their consistent dedication to sharing the pleasure of art with the general public through informative, lively guided tours during grand exhibitions this year, such as Great Journey, Splendid View, an exhibition that marked the 70th anniversary of the founding of People's Republic of China and ended on Nov 2.