Being the only one in town with a curatorial background,
I use a lot of volunteers for installing and taking down
exhibits. I have found that a little training is helpful.
I teach my volunteers how to handle artifacts and why I
use certain installation procedures and exhibit furniture.
They don't need a full course--just an hour or two depending
on the size of the exhibit and the variety of artifacts.
If a volunteer doesn't seem to be paying attention, then
I don't use him or her.
I also supervise their work. Well, actually I work right
beside them. I've found that the crash course on curatorial
procedures makes them more aware of what they are doing
and why they are doing it. They are more likely to come
to me if they have a question rather than just plunging
ahead.
Belinda Nickles
Museum Consultant
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