Opportunities From: VolunteerGrundy.com

The Volunteer Curator supports the preservation, interpretation, and presentation of Grundy County’s history. Working collaboratively with museum staff and volunteers, the Curator assists with collections management, research, and exhibit development to ensure the museum’s holdings are accurately documented, well cared for, and engaging to the public.

Key Responsibilities

Collections & Preservation

Assist with cataloging, organizing, and documenting artifacts, photographs, and archival materials Follow proper artifact handling and basic preservation practices Help maintain accurate collections records and inventories

Research & Interpretation

Conduct research related to Grundy County history and museum collections Assist with writing or reviewing exhibit text, labels, and interpretive materials Verify historical accuracy and sources for exhibits and programs

Exhibits & Displays

Contribute to the planning, development, and installation of exhibits Assist with updating or rotating displays as needed Ensure exhibits align with the museum’s mission and interpretive goals

Public Engagement (Optional)

Assist with answering research inquiries from the public Support tours, educational programs, or special events Share historical knowledge with visitors in a welcoming and informative manner

Qualifications

Strong interest in local history, museums, archives, or genealogy Attention to detail and organizational skills Ability to work independently and collaboratively Basic computer skills; familiarity with research or collections software is helpful Previous museum, archival, or research experience is beneficial but not required

Time Commitment

Flexible; regular availability preferred to support ongoing projects

Benefits of Volunteering

Meaningful role in preserving Grundy County’s heritage Hands-on museum and curatorial experience Training and guidance provided Volunteer recognition and appreciation

The Volunteer Researcher supports the mission of the Grundy County History Museum by conducting historical research related to the museum’s collections, exhibits, and programs. This role helps ensure historical accuracy, depth, and strong documentation of Grundy County’s heritage.

Key Responsibilities

Historical Research

Research people, families, businesses, places, and events connected to Grundy County Locate, review, and summarize primary and secondary sources Assist with fact-checking and source verification for exhibits, publications, and programs

Documentation & Writing

Prepare research summaries, timelines, and reference notes Assist with writing or editing exhibit text, articles, and educational materials Help organize citations and source lists

Collections Support (As Needed)

Assist with identifying, describing, and contextualizing artifacts and photographs Help research provenance and historical significance of items in the collection

Public & Community Support (Optional)

Assist with responding to public research inquiries Support genealogy, oral history, or local history projects Collaborate with staff, volunteers, and community partners

Qualifications

Interest in local history, research, genealogy, or archives Strong attention to detail and analytical skills Ability to work independently and meet agreed-upon deadlines Basic computer and internet research skills Writing or research experience is helpful but not required

Time Commitment

Flexible; project-based or ongoing availability welcome

Benefits of Volunteering

Opportunity to contribute to preserving Grundy County’s history Hands-on research experience Flexible schedule Training and guidance provided Volunteer recognition and appreciation