Research Library

The largest project I worked on was the creation of a research library space. This 360-square-foot area was previously used for storage of miscellaneous materials. I took initiative in transforming it into a place where visitors and students could sit down and learn more about the discoveries they made in the museums.

Before -- May 29th
During -- June 4th

My first task in this process was to sort through everything that had been stored in the space. I sifted through piles of newspapers, posters, framed photos, and books until I could finally see the tables underneath. The majority of the items were newspapers covering the crash and aftermath of Flight 232 which crash-landed in Sioux City in 1989. The feature exhibit of the museum revolves around this story so I organized the newspapers chronologically, pulled out anything we could add to the exhibit, and packed up the newspapers for safe keeping in storage. Once those piles were condensed to boxes, I made new piles of everything else according to where it could be used in the museum, stored for later, or trashed. With the tables somewhat clear, I moved them away from the wall and circled chairs around them to create the collaborative space I was picturing. I also hung up the large posters on the walls and set aside some framed photos for display in the gift shop. I reorganized the book shelves by category to make the materials easy to find and enjoy. After the de-cluttering was finished, we added a bookshelf, file cabinet, and rolling cart to make the space a functional environment for the museum’s STEM director to conduct classes and lead hands-on projects. The new research library is nearly ready to open now. There are just a few finishing touches to take care of including buffing the floor, hanging the last few pictures, and setting up the TV.

After -- June 16th
Organized bookshelves of research materials
STEM Education Center