Installation of a new shelving system for artifacts in Creston Museums storage areas is a large undertaking.
“We are asking for help from the public to get this work done,” Museum manager Tammy Bradford said last week.
The work schedule involves moving many objects into a temporary storage area on the site on November 1-5. The existingwooden shelving will be removed on Saturday.
Next week, November 7-10 will see the installation of new metal shelving, and then the return of artifacts to the shelves.
“The new shelving is getting installed and we’ll be right behind them putting artifacts on those shelves,” said Eileen Fitzpatrick. She is coordinator of the Creston Valley Volunteer Bank, which is helping spread the news about the Museum’s need for help. “Some moving of smaller pieces for those who aren’t that big or strong, depending on the day and the area we’re working in, but a lot of heavy lifting throughout the week.”
All tasks require some lifting, though weights vary and volunteers will be matched up with tasks that suit their physical abilities. Some tasks require people with good physical fitness and strength. There will be some use of stepladders required, quite a few trips up and down stairs with or without artifacts of various sizes, lots of bending and moving, often working in confined spaces. Dust is present everywhere and will be stirred up by all this activity, so this might not be suitable for people with respiratory problems.
Closed-toed, sturdy shoes such as running shoes or work/hiking boots required. Close-fitting work gloves recommended for anyone planning to move furniture and other large pieces. Dust masks recommended for anyone concerned about the dust. If you have low stepladders (they only need to lift a person up a couple of feet) and/or furniture dollies with pneumatic tires (for moving objects over gravel), as well as tie-downs, straps, etc, volunteers are welcome to bring them – make sure they are marked with your name.
To help with scheduling, volunteers are asked to call 250-428-9262 or email crestonmuseum@telus.net.