The Elgar Birthplace Museum is a small, rural, independent museum with a unique and internationally important Collection associated with the life, work and influences of Sir Edward Elgar. The Museum was set up by Elgar's daughter Carice Elgar Blake 75 years ago and for many years visitors crowded into the Birthplace Cottage to see the treasures displayed on open shelves. As interest in Elgar and his music increased, expansion became essential as the Museum could no longer meet the needs of its growing collection, its visitors and its staff. In 2000 the Elgar Centre, situated adjacent to the Birthplace Cottage, was opened to the public. The Centre houses a visitor reception and shop, a permanent exhibition and multifunction room, as well as office space. In the ten years since the Elgar Centre opened, the Museum has maintained its momentum, introducing digital audio guides, an introductory video and interactive touchscreens, developing an outreach education service and undertaking a large digitisation project. Today the Museum welcomes around 10,000 visitors per annum.