I

t is difficult to change the ways of long-time volunteers.  However, as a
new administrator, I would suggest that you work on developing a
rapport with these volunteers.  Volunteers can be a tremendous asset to
a museum.  In many cases they may have been working at a facility
longer than staff.  It is unfair to assume that they view the museum as a
toy to be played with.  Most volunteers donate their time out of genuine
interest.   (some might even be museum professionals themselves)

 Previous administrators may not have stressed the importance of
conservation measures for delicate materials, such as photographs.
Common sense does not dictate these measures, as we often seem to
think.  In the past, adequate training may not have occured and getting
angry with these volunteers is not a solution to this problem.

   Implementing more extensive training will help, you  must also develop a
good relationship with these people.  If you are having a difficulty with a
specific individual, perhaps their assignment could be changed (to a
project not involving photographs).  But if you must ask this individual to
leave the museum, then you must.  This happens among staff as well.
But this incident shouldn't sour your perception of all volunteers.  Many
will prove to be a true asset.