Collections care mentoring program
To carry forward one of the most effective programs of the former Vermont Museum and Gallery Alliance, the Vermont Historical Society, through its League of Local Historical Societies and Museums, offers the Collections Care Mentoring Program.
In this program, Vermont’s local historical societies and museums will have access to the skills and expertise of the state’s leading cultural institutions to address challenges and improve organizational operations relating to collections management and care.
Guidelines: here’s how it works
Local historical societies and museums are encouraged to identify their most critical need relating to collections management and care. They may then apply for the help of a member of the program’s pool of mentors—volunteers who are trained and experienced in a variety of areas relating to collections. Vermont Historical Society staff will help identify the most appropriate mentor for each situation.
Mentors will conduct up to a day-long visit, meeting with staff and volunteers, touring facilities and examining the operations of the organization. Their on-site observations and follow-up written report will guide the organization in addressing the need or challenge defined in the application.
Typical collections care issues include: registration and cataloging, storage, environmental controls, security, exhibitions, emergency planning, and conservation. Organizations also may seek assistance with the care of specific types of collections, such as textiles, photographs or archival materials. In certain circumstances, organizations may benefit most from having a general collections survey.
Who can apply?
To be eligible, the Vermont local historical society or museum must be an institutional member of the Vermont Historical Society (dues are $50 per year). There is no cost to apply or participate in the program, although organizations are asked to reimburse their mentors for travel and meals associated with their site visit. Local historical societies and museums may apply once per year, and applications will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Join us today!
Fill out an application form and we will match your institution with a mentor to assist with your collections care. You can also contact Laura Brill at (802) 479-8522 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
The Vermont Historical Society acknowledges the generous support of the Windham Foundation.
