Published: February 28, 2008 10:13 pm         

Zaner Robison museum to receive IMLS contribution

Ann Cornelius, Curator of the Zaner Robison Historical Museum in Royse City, Texas announced that the newly organized museum in Royse City was selected as one of 615 museums to receive the Institute of Museum and Library Services’ (IMLS) “Connecting to Collections Bookshelf.”

Most recipients have small budgets and staffs and have demonstrated an urgent need for this permanent resource. The contents of the bookshelf were selected by a panel of conservation experts; it includes an essential set of books, online resources, and a user’s guide that are designed to profoundly impact the ability of small libraries and museums to care for their collections.

“The Museum Board of Directors are working diligently to gather donations so we can open the first museum in Royse City by May 1, 2008,” explained Cornelius. “We will be highlighting the history of our area from 1880 to 1960, with examples of early pioneer life to the first T.V. set in Royse City.

“Residents who have photos or memorabilia from family members who served in the military are asked to bring us copies for our ‘Wall of Heroes.’ We are also including members of the police and fire department.”

Another exhibit will feature organizations, clubs and groups that have been active in the past, along with photos and scrapbooks.

The groups that contribute to the Bookshelf are the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the American Association for State and Local History, The Getty Foundation, The Henry Luce Foundation, and the Samuel H. Kress Foundation.

The Zaner Robison Historical Museum will be open from noon to 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 1 to 4 pm on Sunday starting in May. Contact Ann Cornelius at 972-636-3350 ext. 314 for more information.