HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda - 05-18-2010 - 8aORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: May 18, 2010
Action Agenda
Item No. ~ ° q
SUBJECT: Heritage Center Work Group Report
DEPARTMENTS: Library Services PUBLIC HEARING: (Y/N) No
ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT:
1) Heritage Center Consultant's Proposal Barbara Baker, Heritage Center Work Group
2) Heritage Center Consultant's Report Facilitator, 919 622-3321
3) Letter from NC Digital Heritage Center
PURPOSE: To receive the final report from the 2009 Heritage Center Work Group.
BACKGROUND: On October 20, 2009 the Heritage Center Work Group (HCWG) made an
interim report to the BOCC. At that time the BOCC authorized the Work Group to
1. Hire a consultant from funds provided by the Chapel Hill-Orange County Visitors Bureau
to prepare a more detailed plan and for research including:
a) surveying and making a recommendation on available facilities;
b) analyzing collections in the County to determine what items would be appropriate
to be housed in the Heritage Center collection;
c) analyzing and listing needed equipment;
d) analyzing staffing needs;
e) developing a proposed budget; and
f) identifying potential private and public funding sources.
2. Assess the interest, intentions, and requirements of the Board of Directors and
administrative staff of the Historical Foundation of Hillsborough and Orange County (the
Foundation) about adding Heritage Center functions to its current offerings; and
3. Charge the 2009 Heritage Center Work Group to report on the findings of the consultant
and make further recommendations before May 2010.
The HCWG hired Barbara Taylor, a museum professional with experience at the Museum of the
Albemarle, the High Point Museum, and other out-of-state facilities (proposal and resume
included as Attachment #1), t o serve as the consultant. Ms. Taylor's report with several
attachments is included as Attachment #2. Ms. Taylor's recommendations are as follows:
Begin with digitization as a form of preserving the very important history of Orange
County. The Orange County Library is willing to provide staff support and space for
research, and with the digitized documents, the many resources of the county will be
under one roof. Through such a process, researchers from around the world can
learn about this local history, and may indeed come to visit and see the original
documents.
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If the discussions between the Orange County Historical Museum, Town and County
leadership prove fruitful, it would be the best possible solution to ultimately bring
the physical files to one place under the direction of the Orange County Historical
Museum. The Heritage Center then would become a reality and the museum would
be able to continue its important role in educating all to the heritage of North
Carolina that is deeply seated in Orange County.
Understanding the current fiscal situation for governments and non-profit organizations, the
HCWG believes scanning, photographing, and cataloging the collections of records and
artifacts in the County is the first step in creating an Orange County Heritage Center. A digital
Heritage Center would be a link to the history of the County and widely available to residents of
the County and others through the Internet. The Work Group believes the digital collection can
be the cornerstone of a larger collection that could be available for researchers in a future
facility, possibly one overseen by the Foundation. It is understood that a heritage center
function located with the Orange County Historical Museum in the future would be dependent
upon the ability of the Board of Directors of the Foundation in negotiation with the Town of
Hillsborough and Orange County, as may be required, to be able to relocate its Museum into
sufficient space for program expansion and enhancement.
Based on this study, the expertise of the Heritage Center Work Group members, and the
collaborative work of the Heritage Center Work Group, it is recommended the Board of County
Commissioners:
1. Encourage the historic agencies in Orange County to continue to work together to
pursue opportunities for digitizing and sharing collections of documents and artifacts
that represent the history of Orange County. The opportunities would include services
available in and outside of the County and funding through grants identified by the
consultant and other professionals working in the field;
2. Explore the development of a digital heritage resource, as indicated above, as an
initial step toward providing access to County-wide historical documents, artifacts, and
archives;
3. Authorize the Orange County Public Library to work with the NC Digital Heritage
Center Project (see attached letter) to investigate and create a mutually beneficial
partnership for the initial digital collaboration project for Orange County's historical
agencies. The Library will assume no additional costs in staff or operations for the
establishment of the partnership. Funding for creation of the digital records and links
to it through the NC Digital Heritage Center Project will be sought through grants
using the Rebecca B. Wall bequest funds for "seed money" or matching, not to
exceed $25,000 over 4 years.
4. Support the Historical Foundation of Hillsborough and Orange County's willingness to
take on the Heritage Center function within the mission of the Foundation;
5. Encourage the historic agencies in Hillsborough and Orange County to continue to
work together to identify and include materials from County-wide resources as the
non-profit agencies that hold archives are able to participate in the digitization project;
and
6. Authorize County management to partner with the Town of Hillsborough, the landlord
for the Orange County Historical Museum, as requested, to explore the possibilities of
expanded space for the Museum, acting in the interest of a heritage center function as
opportunities become available.
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FINANCIAL IMPACT: The library and museum professionals on the HCWG and the consultant
have identified potential grant funders (for non-profit and/or government agencies) which
provide financial assistance for this type of project. Funds from the Rebecca B. Wall Bequest,
up to $25,000 over the next 4 years for initial and future projects, can be used to provide "seed
money" or as a match for grants to allow the Library and other Orange County historical
organizations to digitize materials and artifacts.
RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends the Board accept the findings in the 2009
Heritage Center Work Group Report and authorize staff to simultaneously proceed with the
following next steps:
1. Explore the development of a digital heritage resource, as indicated above, as an initial
step toward providing access to County-wide historical documents, artifacts, and
archives;
2. Authorize the funds from the Rebecca B. Wall bequest be allocated as $5,000 for seed
money for initial projects and $20,000 be used as matches for grants over the next 4
years;
3. Authorize County management to continue its efforts with the Town of Hillsborough and
the Foundation to achieve expanded programming space and allow for the development
of heritage center services for both residents and visitors to the County; and
4. Approve the sunsetting of the Heritage Center Work Group, having completed its original
charge from the Board of Commissioners, on June 30, 2010.
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ATTACHMENT #1
<btaylor797 @aol. com>
Sent: Nov 29, 2009 05:41:51 PM
To: <barbarabaker08@verizon.net>, <atullos@co.orange.nc.us>
November 29, 2009
Dear Ms. Baker:
Thank you for providing me with the copy of the RFP for the Orange County Heritage
Center. The project sounds very forward-thinking to combine many of the local archival
resources into one facility for the ease of the researcher and preservation of the resources. I
am familiar with at least one other operation that is being established. And when I was at the
High Point Museum I considered such a project for the preservation of the history of the
furniture industry that has been fragmented to various institutions. I believe that a project
such as yours is a thoughtful way to conserve resources.
I would be most interested in working with your group over the next several months and I have
the time to commit to this project. The strength that I bring to the table is that I have been
associated with four museum construction projects, at various phases. I have been involved in
selection of site taking into consideration location, needs and cost for the project. I have
worked with architects to interview key employees and board members who could best suggest
what is required, as well as working with the community through public charettes to ascertain
their desires for the new facility. I am aware of requisite environmental conditions for storage
of archives and collections as well as general museum galleries. I have worked with fundraising
counsel to understand the position and interest of a project in the community, and how to
promote it. I have been involved with considering how an institution works with and through
other organizations to develop its niche. And I have had to project needed personnel and
budgetary resources for the operation of an expanded facility. During these construction
projects I have worked with the refit of ofd buildings as well as design of new structures.
Additionally, my first job in the museum profession was at an institution that had just opened. I
was responsible for setting up the documentation of the collection, researching and training
individuals to give tours, as well as publicity for the new institution. At other museums I found
that the institution needed much help and organization. I have had to create procedures to
establish professional measures within museum operations. This has included restructuring file
storage for the day-to-day business of the operation, as well as establishing proper procedures
to organize collections. In one museum I had to oversee the separation of working museum
documents from collection related documents. While I like to see an organization in good
shape, 1 understand how to break down a project to get the institution where it needs to
be. Similarly, if various institutions are melded together, protocols will need to be
established. All of these issues will be among your concerns as this project is further studied.
Regarding knowledge of grants, I have been writing grants since 1983. I calculate that I have
easily acquired close to a million dollars through grants during my career, many of these being
grants no larger than $2 - $5,000 dollars. 1 am very familiar with state and national programs,
as well as corporate opportunities. In 2008 I wrote 18 grants to obtain funding for the
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installation of an exhibit on newly acquired collection of furniture manufacturing tools and our
historical furniture. One of the grants was from the Institute of Museum and Library
Services. We were awarded the largest level grant of $150,000,
Throughout my career I have had to diplomatically deal with a large variety of persons. As
Curator of Education at the Mint Museum of History, I recruited and trained 125 individuals as
docents in six years. At the end of that time, 80 were active in the program. Ten years later, 10
from the original class I trained were still active. Since then I have served as the director of four
separate institutions in different parts of the country. I have worked for both private boards,
and cities with an advising board. As I have been involved in various building projects, I have
had to be articulate and precise, getting the message of the projects across to various
constituents. I have worked with city, county and state leaders, as well as community and
business leaders. As mentioned above I have worked closely with fundraising counsel, boards
and architects on the design of these projects. I am confident that I can work with the citizens
and leaders of Orange County and the involved organizations to successfully plan for the new
Heritage Center.
I am attaching my resume to this document. Please let me know what other information I
might provide to you. I look forward to discussing this exciting project with you.
Sincerely,
Barbara E. Taylor
BARBARA E. TAYLOR
306 Otteray Avenue 336-884-7362-h
Huh Point NC 27262 BTaylor797 aoLcom 336-404-1751-c
MANAGER GRANT WRITER FUNDRAISER AUTHOR/EDITOR RESEARCHER
CAREER SUMMARY
Over 33 years ofnon-profit management experience primarily in the History Museum sector. A motivated,
personable professional with a demonstrated history of improving organizations through facility expansions,
marketing, effective financial oversight and exhibit research, development and presentation. Works well with
people of varying backgrounds and all levels of an organization. Skills and strengths include developing and
conducting training programs, written and verbal communications with all levels of an organization, artistic
creation, budget development and marketing.
Consultant, High Point, NC
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
2009-Present
• Developed and currently executing a marketing plan for a children's book author.
• Wrote multiple grants for 2non-profit organizations including Doll and Miniature Museum of High Point
and 1 AM NOW, Inc. a home for young men who have aged out of foster care.
High Point Museum, High Point, NC
Museum of local history.
President
2000-2009
Responsible for $750,000 budget, part time and full time staff of 17, programs and exhibits. Museum was closed
for expansion from 1997 to 2001. Working with staff and contractors, successfully re-opened the facility in 2001
with redesigned and newly installed exhibits.
• Responsible for oversight of 7 museum buildings and negotiated the purchase of three properties for
future expansion.
• Oversaw the restoration of a log structure by communicating daily with staff, Board, and contractors and
ensuring an effective schedule and plan was in place which resulted in being awarded the Gertrude 5.
Carroway Award for Historic Preservation from NC Preservation.
• Created "88 Keys for Coltrane" campaign that raised over $19,000 to purchase and restore the piano of
John Coltrane, High Point resident. Campaign received national attention.
• Acquired the furniture manufacturing collection of a closing museum and supervised the successful
reinterpretation and reinstallation of the exhibit, including the award of $150,000 IMLS grant.
• Increased African American membership approximately 300%resulting from changes in exhibits
recommended by the community.
• Published African American Gallery Guide that won awards from the American Association of Museums,
the Southeastern Museum Conference and the North Carolina Museums Council.
Historic Rosedale Plantation, Charlotte, NC 1998-2000
Historic 1815 Plantation home with appropriate period furnishings and 8 acres of gardens.
Executive Director
Responsible for $200,000 budget, staff of 3 and all programs.
• Monitored restoration of original 1815 wallpaper.
• Arranged for and supervised archaeological research to discover location of original slave quarters and
other out buildings.
Museum Consultant September, 1997-October, 1997
Conducted a comprehensive review of operations, budget and staffing for Historic Rosedale Plantation and
provided recommendations for future direction of site, activities and funding opportunities.
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Catholic Social Services, Mobile, AL & Charlotte, NC May, 1997-August, 1997
Provides social services to Catholic Community.
Marketing Consultant
Coordinated marketing and legislative efforts to secure future funding and survival of a Welfare-to-Work program
(The Angel Factory) to evolve into aself-sustaining cottage ihdustry. Resulted in [he awarding of $60,000 in the
Alabama 1997 budget.
Museum of Mobile, Mobile, AL 1993.1997
Local historical museum [racing Mobile's history from Native Americans [o the present.
Director
• Supervised 17 full and part time staff, 5 facilities including three museums and two warehouses.
• Comprehensive oversight of all museum programs and effectively managed budget growth from $300,000
of $500,000.
• Recruited fundraising counsel and participated in solicitation of businesses in a Capital Fundraising
campaign for the new facility. Raised $4.2 million.
• Worked with city leaders on the donation and renovation of the 1857 City Hall to become a modern
museum facility totaling 67,000 square feet including plans for the expanded staff and budget.
Museum of the Albemarle, Elizabeth City, NC 1983-1993
Regional history museum serving ten counties in northeastern NC interpreting 400 years of history.
Director
• Supervised staff of 6 full time and 2 part time employees.
• Comprehensive oversight of facility and programs.
• Responsible for effective management of $250,000 budget, fundraising and grant writing.
• Served as consultant for regional historical societies.
• Supervised design and development of new 50,000 square foot museum acting as liaison for architects,
board and city and state authorities in coordination of project.
Mlnt Museum of History, Charlotte, NC 1976-1983
Local history museum exploring the history of Charlotte.
Curator of Education (1978-1983)
Assistant Curator (1976-1978)
EDUCATION
George Washington University, Washington, DC, 1976
MAT, Museum Education/American History,
Trinity College, Washington, DC, 1974
BA, History
Sophomore year at Oxford University, England
INTERNSHIPS
Hyde Elementary, Washington, DC
The National Archives, Washington, DC
National Portrait Gallery, Education Department
Corcoran Gallery of Art, Education Department
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ATTACHMENT #2
Barbara E. Ta~u~or
Cowsultav~.t, ~rawt Writer, I-ti-storiaw
sob otterau~ ~vewue
I-t%gh Po%wt, NC 2~2l02
March 26, 2010
Barbara Baker
Facilitator
Heritage Center Work Group
Hillsborough, NC
Dear Barbara,
I want to thank you and the members of the Heritage Center Work Group for hiring me
fo study the issue of developing a Heritage Center for Hillsborough. I found the work
challenging, and enjoyed working with the many partners who were involved.
Attached you will find a complete copy with attachments of my report. As my work
progressed two possible answers to the Heritage Center came into focus. Based on the
amount of materials that the various institutions held, I felt that these items could be
digitized and thereby "virtuall)r' brought together for individuals doing research in
Orange County, a stated goal of the project. In fact, working with the UNC NC Heritage
Digitization Center, this work will be done for free, and will be accessible to all on the
World Wide Web.
In the very last phase of my work, the Orange County Historical Museum voiced its
interest in the possibility of expansion with an opportunity to oversee the envisioned
Heritage Center. As the time committed to this project is ending, I encourage that this
new possibility be explored. Ultimately, it could become the perfect solution. However,
this will necessitate discussion between the County and the Board of the Museum.
I hope that my work will provide the information that Hillsborough was seeking. Once
again, I wish to thank all the partners that gave their time to this important consideration.
Sincerely,
Barbara E. Taylor
Consultant
Report for Heritage Center Work Group
Final Report
March 26, 2010
Barbara E. Taylor, Consultant
On June 16, 2009 The Board of County Commissioners of Orange County approved the
composition and charge of a Heritage Center Work Group to respond to recommendations
from past task forces. Based on the work of three library task forces in 2000, 2004, and 2007
and a subgroup of the 2000 effort (an archival task force) the 2009 Work Group members were
charged with providing the Board of County Commissioners with a clear snapshot of the
financial and operational requirements needed to support the needs and expectations of such a
facility.
In October, 2009, this group recommended that a consultant be hired to prepare a detailed
plan and do research including:
1. Surveying and making a recommendation on available facilities;
2. Analyzing collections in the County to determine what items would be appropriate to be
housed in the Heritage collection;
3. Analyzing and listing needed equipment;
4. Analyzing staffing needs;
S. Developing a proposed budget; and
6. Identifying potential private and public funding sources.
I was also charged to assess the interest, intentions and requirements of the Board of Directors
and administrative staff of the Historical Foundation of Hillsborough and Orange County
(Orange County Historical Museum} about adding Heritage Center functions to its current
offerings.
Finally I was to ascertain if this Heritage Center would drive tourism into the county.
In addition to my charges, there were several other issues that I perceived needed answers.
The first was to determine what documents (archival, research materials, secondary sources}
were in the hands of the historical agencies. By knowing the size of collections and the kinds of
documents I could determine the size of a building and kind of storage that these collections
needed.
The "business group" of the Heritage Center Work Group had asked that very important
question of the historical agencies. Based on the answers they created a Scope Document
which they turned over to me. However, the data wasn't complete for several institutions.
Upon review of the document very few agencies had what I would consider to be "archives" or
unique original documents. It appeared that only Burwell School and the Orange County
Historical Museum had original or archival materials, and it wasn't clear the quantity of those
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documents. Several agencies had described what they had, but not the quantity or the space
needed to store these items. (Scope Document, Attachment A)
Interviews and Survey:
To begin this project, I constructed a survey of eight questions and met individually with,
members of the work group that represented historical agencies. (Survey Document,
Attachment B) i went to each location so i could physically see the materials and how they
were stored. I could then ascertain how much space each required. The questions were
constructed to illicit consistent information from each group, while understanding their
operations and interest in a Heritage Center. The only group that I didn't meet with was the
Chapel Hili Museum as they were busy with other issues and had previously expressed that
they would not be interested in sharing their collection for a greater Orange County Heritage
archival effort.
The questions I asked included:
1. What were the problems and advantages to establishing a Heritage Center?
2. What documents each would or would not share;
3. How should the center be managed;
4. What funding would they be willing to contribute; and
5. What documents, other than those owned by the historical agencies, should
be collected?
During the visit I estimated the spatial needs of each institution in the Heritage Center Work
Group and updated the Scope Document.
I also met with the Library staff and with the Business group of the Heritage Center Work Group
and asked similar questions. I was told that Commissioner Jacobs was interested in the project
and interested in speaking to me. Commissioner Barry Jacobs met with me and again,
answered many of the same questions. To get the opinions of "users" of the facility, I spoke to
three individuals who had been present at County Commissioner meetings to get their
feedback for the need for this facility. Carol Boggs, Stewart Dunaway and Narissa Williams
were in favor of a Heritage Center though understood funding difficulties.
After meeting with all the partners I compiled the answers into one document so that I could
see what the developing trends were. i deliberately did not attach names or agencies to the
comments. I distributed these answers to the group members. (Compiled Survey,
Attachment C)
The most significant information that came out of the survey, in my opinion, was:
1j Only one agency was willing to place their archival materials with a "Heritage Center" if
the environment was an improvement over theirs;
2] Other agencies would share copies or researched materials; we learned that the Burwell
School had received a grant and was already digitizing their collections. They would
share a digital copy of their collections;
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3) Few thought they could contribute funds to have a "share" in this center. The most
anyone offered was $1000 for the year. Most agencies said that they had no money.
4) There is a strong desire to have the documents or copies of them to be accessible in one
place for the public, along with someone to help with guiding their research;
5) No one specifically knew of other "archival collections' in the community that could be
stored in the Heritage Center.
I spoke to the City of Hillsborough, to the County Clerk's Office and to the Planning Office to
make sure none of them had documents that could be included in the Heritage Center. When I
started the project I was hopeful to find that certain governmental departments needed to
store their documents. Storage could then be provided in the Heritage Center, adding stronger
justification to create such a facility. Often these documents provide researchers information.
Unfortunately, none had archival documents.
I also met with the Occoneechee Tribal Office manager, Mr. Hazel. He expressed interest in
participating in the Heritage Center, but again, only had copies of information to offer.
Another question I asked that wasn't specifically on the survey was how many clients interested
in heritage center type services do you serve in a year. The total was under 200 individuals;
however, many researchers who do research regularly often do not register each time. Also,
some agencies can't serve clients because of lack of staffing or space, or hours open. Agencies
who wish to serve researchers but have difficulty include the Orange County Historical
Museum, the Alliance for Historic Hillsborough, the Durham-Orange Genealogical Society, and
the Chapel Hill Historical Society among others. This is the very reason some agencies want the
Heritage Center.
The analysis of the Scope Document led to an understanding of how much space would be
needed in a stand-alone facility. The Library stated they would retain their current research
materials at the library if a Heritage Center were established. Therefore the necessary space
does not include figures that the Orange County Library provided.
When asked if the individual agencies could or would contribute to the operation of a Heritage
Center, most said that they had no funds available. The Durham/Orange County Genealogical
Society stated that they were willing to raise and contribute some funds. The largest stated
offer of funding was $1000 per year. Currently there does not appear to be sufficient funding
at any level for a Heritage Center, publicly or privately.
Evaluation of Buildings:
My next task was to review buildings that might be usable as a Heritage Center. Many agencies
I interviewed believed that the County might have a building for them to use. Many sited the
Purchasing Building. I met with Gwen Harvey, Assistant County Manager and was told that the
County could not give any buildings to the project. She arranged forme to see the Purchasing
Building and the Graham Building. (Evaluation of Buildings, Attachment D) I ascertained, based
on the Scope Document, that a building or space of approximately 1000 square feet would be
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needed to house a Heritage Center. While a bit smaller, the Graham building would probably
work, at least for five or so years. The building would have to be used as is, as the walls are
load bearing and cannot be reconfigured.
The Purchasing Building is approximately 6000 square feet, more than 6 times larger than the
Graham Building and basically too much space for astand-alone Center. There has been some
discussion that the Orange County Historical Museum has no more room and needs to expand.
it was discussed that the Museum might use this opportunity to share space with the Heritage
Center and even oversee it. I met with several Executive Board members of the Museum to
discuss if this is something in which they are interested. While they are interested in the
possibility, it is my understanding they do not like the Purchasing Building as it has issues with
flooding in approximately 1/3 of its total square footage. This is undesirable for an archives or
museum. Furthermore, the building is very narrow, and would need total reconfiguration of
spaces inside, to accommodate the two programs. As the museum has a current square
footage of 4,500 square feet, not 2,000 square feet as originally thought, there would be no
point in relocating to this building. Renovation figures would be excessive between correcting
the water problem and redoing the interior space. The Museum has stated it does not have
the funding for such a project.
Board members of the Historical Foundation of Hillsborough and Orange County which
operates the Orange County Historical Museum did express interest in the possibility of
overseeing the Heritage Center and operating it if it were in the Graham Building. This was
viewed as being an "annex' to the museum. However, the Museum is not in a position to
purchase or rent the facility if the rent is at a fair market value. The Museum views this
building as an opportunity to remove its archives to a different location, creating a small bit of
space in their current facility. would enable the group to bring together the documents of
Orange County and house them in one place. However, it does not provide long-term solution
to expanded space for the Museum.
Equipment, Staff and Budget:
My third task was to determine what the costs of a Heritage Center might be. Based on the
needs, I figured a budget for astand-alone operation of approximately 1000 square feet. To
house the various collections would require approximately 90 linear feet of shelving and
numerous file cabinets and map cases. 1 have put together estimates that allow for growth of
the collection over time. As the library's resources would remain at the library, all equipment
would need to be purchased. It could be that some agencies would give their file cabinets with
the collections, but some have indicated that they would retain their files and give the Heritage
Center copies.
I developed estimates to fund the operation in its entirety purchasing all new equipment. I also
projected annual operational costs. However, at this time, with the possible involvement of the
Orange County Historical Museum and discussion of several different buildings, those figures
are better left out of the report. To include figures that could possibly be interpreted as "the
true cosy' of the project would ultimately be confusing and possibly detrimental as plans move
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forward. If the Orange County Historical Museum takes on the responsibility of embracing the
Heritage Center, a completely new estimate would have to be done, based on the space size
and its existing environment.
Other Heritage Centers:
During the project I interviewed several other Heritage Centers (Johnson County, Union County
and High Point Library) and learned that most receive funding or significant support through
their County or their City government. Johnston County raises funds, contributing to
approximately 1/10th of the budget. (Attachment E)
The number of people who used these centers is approximately 3,500 annually. This compares
to the attendance at the Orange County Historical Museum which is approximately 7,000 -
10,000 per year.
Alternative:
During my investigation, l questioned if these research and archival materials could or should
be digitized. As there were few "original documents" it seemed costly to create a space for
what was mostly excellent information, but information that didn't need special storage, that
is, non-archival materials.
The Library offered that they would be willing to become a partner and oversee digitization and
web management, with access through computer in the library. With its current books and
microfiche, we would be adding the other materials by accessing them through a computer.
(The County IT department would have to agree, as creating a server, etc., would be an added
cost but cheaper than a structure with staff.) While the partners saw the benefit of digitization,
they were still interested in a Heritage Center.
I began my further investigation with a visit to the NC Room at the UNC Wilson library. I
wanted to see how many people they served a year. They serve approximately 6000 annually,
with approximately two-thirds being from on campus. They, however, do not have any primary
resources, only printed and published works. Through them I learned that the UNC Library was
doing digitization. It was my thought that maybe they could assist us with digitization of the
Orange County documents for a fee.
I was encouraged to discuss my thoughts with the NC Heritage Digitization Project (NCHDP) that
had just been established at UNC Chapel Hill. Lucinda Munger and I met with Nick Graham,
Program Coordinator of the NCHDP and Natasha Smith, Head, Digital Publishing Group, at UNC,
regarding UNC's two digitization projects. Initially we were hopeful to use the resources of the
Digital Publishing Group to assist us with digitizing the various collections. We assumed there
would be a fee to do this. However, the meeting turned out much better than we could have
planned. Nick Graham was looking for groups to conduct a pilot project with their newly
formed NC Heritage Digitization Project. He was interested in working with our group,
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particularly the museums to see how to digitize artifacts in addition to working with
documents. His project would work with our group for free!
Nick Graham met with the group on February 16 to explain more about the project. Four
agencies felt that they would like to work with him initially, though all might conceivably have
their researched materials digitized as well. The four groups that are involved are the Orange
County Public Library, the Orange County Historical Museum, the Orange County Historic
Preservation Commission, and the Alliance for Historic Hillsborough. They have agreed to meet
with him and will begin the work of digitizing the various collections. The NCHDP wishes to be
able to put digitized collections throughout North Carolina on their server and make them
accessible on their website for researchers. The Orange County Library, and any other site, can
easily Zink with the NCHDP to provide research materials of Orange County, and other places in
NC, as they become digitized. The library has agreed to provide that link and already has staff
that can help individuals use the web and do searches.
Archives and Environment
During group discussions I had clearly understood that there was a concern for the preservation
of archives. The Orange County Historical Museum is concerned about its environment in
relation to the preservation of their archives. I also learned that the Burwell School has already
received funding to digitize their collection. It is believed that their storage is not ideal, though
they do not appear to be seeking better storage at this time. While not tasked specifically, I felt
compelled to find a repository in Orange County that might store archives in a safe
environment, and allow the collection to remain under the control of the original agency.
I contacted Tim West, Curator of Manuscripts and Director of the Southern Historical Collection
at UNC and asked if they might be interested in receiving such materials. He felt that they
would accept the archives, particularly if they were relevant to Orange County. He also stated
he could work with the group and perhaps let them maintain ownership of the materials, as
long as they remain with the Historical Collection for a period of time to justify doing
cataloguing and listing of the materials on the web. This would be up to the individual agency
to pursue.
Conclusion:
The purpose of the Heritage Center as envisioned is four fold.
1j It would provide an environment that is necessary for archival storage;
2) It would bring together the documents and files that exist in several different
historical agencies that had neither the staff, space nor time to accommodate the
general public doing research;
3) It would enable local and visiting researchers to conduct their work in one place,
with assistance from trained staff;
4) It is hoped that such a Heritage Center would increase tourism in Hillsborough.
After surveying the historical agencies, only one, the Historic Foundation of Hillsborough and
Orange County, is in'need of better storage for its archival materials. One agency wanted to
15
transfer its files, which are of research value, to another location in order to regain space.
Other agencies are willing to give copies of their research and files, while retaining original
material on site for their own continued use.
While such a Center might have workshops or classes, and possibly exhibits, the goal is to
provide research space. In the end, staffing should be focused on preserving and caring for
research materials and archival documents and assisting researchers. Other Heritage Centers
stated that approximately two-thirds of their researchers were local, and therefore were not
seen as a tourist destination.
Armed with the knowledge of the size of total collections in Hillsborough, a building or space of
approximately1000 sq. feet with some environmental controls would accommodate the need
for research space. The issue then becomes who is willing to pay for this. The County has
limited funding. The individual agencies are unable to fund a percentage of the cost for
working together to pay the total cost. A review of grants available for construction or
renovation, and ongoing budget are few and far between, and would never sustain the total
operation. (Attachment Ej
The next question becomes: Can we accommodate the bringing together of these documents
so that researchers will have the benefit of using these resources, without the need to go from
agency to agency? There are two possible answers.
1) The fact that the North Carolina Digital Heritage Center has offered to digitize a number
of collections for free, including artifacts, allows the agencies to get the research in one
central location. Even though this "central location" might be on the World Wide Web,
it would in fact accommodate the need to assist researchers with finding Orange County
history in one spot. Each document will indicate what institution provided it. If the
researcher wished to see the original, they would then have the ability to do so by
making an appointment with the agency. This information will be available on the
World Wide Web along with other North Carolina collections, thus making it available to
all.
If all the materials are not digitized in this initial project, many grants are available to
fund such projects. Then all it takes is a computer to access this information.
One strong reason to digitize, with or without a heritage center is the need to preserve
the original documents that are in fragile condition. As Richard Ellington, member of
DOGS, relayed to the group, he stated that Dick Langford with the N.C. Department of
Archives and History in Raleigh literally "sweeps up history at the end of each day after
the researchers are finished looking at original documents". While allowing researchers
to look at the original document, small fragments of the papers often crumble away.
Digitization does allow for the long term preservation of each document.
16
As the Orange County Library has the largest collection of secondary materials on local
history, space, and staff that can assist researchers, it makes sense that the Library
becomes the place for research, with a computer linked to the NC Digital Heritage
Center. They are willing to offer this service. Every other historical agency can also
access the site through the web, using this material for their research purposes.
2j The Foundation for Historic Hillsborough and Orange County which operates the Orange
County Historical Museum has expressed an interest in becoming part of the solution by
considering accommodating the Heritage Center in a plan that could give much needed
additional space to the museum. Gwen Harvey, Assistant County Manager, encouraged
the Foundation Board to meet with the County and Town Managers to explore a long
term solution that could provide for the museum's expansion and the creation of a
Heritage Center that could physically store the archives and research files in one place.
This is not an immediate solution, but could provide an excellent opportunity and the
best solution in the Tong term. A member of the Foundation board, the Heritage Center
Work Group facilitator, and the Assistant County Manager met with County and City
officials to see if this could become a reality.
As the storage of archival materials in a safe environment did not seem immediately
forthcoming, I sought a location to move archival materials to, without fee that can properly
care for these original documents. The Southern Historical Collection said it would consider
working with these groups.
The digitization of these collections should be seen as the first step. If there are significant
numbers of additional archives in private ownership, the Heritage Center could still be a viable
answer. I would encourage the local agencies to generate publicity on the current project.
Private citizens might be interested in giving their documents or having them digitized. I also
recommend that the agencies sponsor a day encouraging individuals to share their private
collections with the intention of learning what documents are available in the County. This
could lead to greater research capability and a more urgent need for the storage of these
documents.
While it was the hope of many to have astand-alone repository, it is my advice, at this time, to
begin with digitization as a form of preserving the very important history of Orange County.
The Orange County Library is willing to provide staff support and space for research, and with
the digitized documents, the many resources of the county will be under one roof. Through
such a process, researchers from around the world can learn about this local history, and may
indeed come to visit and see the original documents.
If the discussions between the Orange County Historical Museum, Town, and County leadership
prove fruitful, it would be the best possible solution to ultimately bring the physical files to one
place under the direction of the Orange County Historical Museum. The Heritage Center then
would become a reality and the museum would be able to continue its important role in
educating all to the heritage of North Carolina that is deeply seated in Orange County.
17
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22
Attachment B
Survey for Heritage Center Project Organization
Date
1j What advantages do you see in creating the Heritage Center?
2j What problems do you see in creating the Heritage Center?
3) Do you have documents you will not want to share? What are they? Why?
4j Do you think one the existing agencies should take on the task of overseeing the
archives? Which one? If not, then who should?
5) Will you be willing to contribute financially by percentage or flat fee to the included in the
arrangement? Will you 6e willing to pay a fee to use a document from another agency?
6) How should the Heritage Center be managed? Should you have a voice in the
management?
7j If there was no concern about money, what would you like to see happen?
8j What collections would you solicit or think should be solicited? Do you plan to solicit any
collections for your institution?
9) Other thoughts or comments.
23
Attachment C
Abbreviated Master Survey for Heritage Center Project
1) What advantages do you see ih creating the Heritage Center?
Assist, not disappoint visitors who come to do research
To combine collections
Help the town overall in attracting tourism
If History Museum & Heritage Center combined, they would have space for museum's 3500 artifacts as
well as good storage for archives
One place to do research.
Essential for community... infrastructure. So many entities collecting independently.
More heritage tourism
Accessible by the public, contains all our records, essential for researchers coming to town.
No research space at history museum
Create "one stop shopping for Orange County History', greater hours of access, larger facility that would
allow growth and expansion, a broader scope.
2} What problems do you see in creating the Heritage Center?
Funding !
Political structure of county, no tie to "old Orange Co:'
Doesn't see problems in creating this archives
Creating another non-profit
If museum combined and relocated, lose a good location. Town owns building, so relocation could impact
increase in budget
Community involvement... work groups ceased activity, didn't come to conclusion.
Funding
If we give everything, we give away our value
Sustainability
Not self-sustaining
There really is NO collection, copies of copies. Several history groups want limited access to material, not
open access. Limited time of access. Who would be owner of documents? Who would pay for building,
operation, etc. How would you achieve compatibility in cataloging, finding aids, etc.?
County very political, takes longer to get things in motion.
Needs to be a public private partnership. Can't be publicly supported only.
Purchase Building has been identified as a building that could be used for this purpose. County awarded
for its adaptive reuse. There is a water issue in the back 2000 feet of building.
3) Do you have documents you will not want to share? What are they? Why?
Don't have any documents
Would give all electronic files they have.
As long as basic archival needs are met, they would be ok to turn over documents
Would give copies of all our files. Possibly scrapbooks of local civic organizations.
Would give copies of materials
24
Planning to share digital copies of documents
Have no primary documents
Will give all files (they do not have "archival documents")
Collection does not contain any primary material, only abstracts, books, etc.
"Can you ask for documents if you don't give them?"
4) Do you think one of the existing agencies should take on the task of overseeing the archives? Which one?
If not, then who should?
foundation/Museum but they would need to relocate.
Orange County Historical Museum in conjunction with the Alliance
Continued under county, library
History museum is most likely
It should be a government entity rather than a historical agency.
Orange County Museum most likely
Museum, only if they can handle the staff and space needs. Do not currently have.
Most logically OCHM, they have the base collection... included in Heritage Center.
5) Will you be willing to contribute financially by percentage or flat fee to the included in the arrangement?
Would add another line item {less support to all the other agencies)
Would be willing to fundraise (approx. $S00)
Limited financially
Depends on the cost. Possibly pay (eventually) for the staff position
Probably something small ($1000)
Might be able to justify $100 a year
Doubtful County would pay to participate
Willing to give a percentage of money however, feel a virtual approach is more appropriate.
Needs to ask board. If needed to house collection, I think we would participate. Right now free of charge.
Fee for document-no.
6) How should the Heritage Center be managed? Should you have a voice in the
management? Answers extensive.
If heritage center had a competent staff, don't think every organization have a say in management.
Archivist should staff. They would report to some board
Ok with Foundation overseeing, but with collaboration with county government.
Town probably wouldn't want to participate
Foundation Board would oversee, though the county would need to be represented. The archivist would
report to Museum Director. One facility for the museum and the archives. Therefore oversight by board
and County.
Board, but a working board with knowledge of archives. If you have stuff in the
center, you should have a say.
25
Satellite part of museum. Full time staff hired (archivist) with volunteers. County should contribute IT
help.
Satellite part of museum. Full time staff hired (archivist) with volunteers. County should contribute IT
help.
Money should come from the city. Local institution. Some grants from Hillsborough tourism, public
donation. May cut into other organizations funding. Not 100% sure if it is Orange County or Hillsborough.
State money?
Public/private endeavor. An executive director should be hired who reports to the board... which is
comprised of public, non-profit agencies and county
representation.
7) If there was no concern about money, what would you like to see happen?
Combine Heritage Center and Museum into one space.
Facility open to general public with lots of Orange County history including the natural, political and
cultural history. Safe archival storage. 1-2 permanent employees. Minimally opened 2 3 days a week,
more with volunteers. Permanent space for revolving collections, research and study. Some public
programs by organizations involved.
Shared facililty for each group for archives, for safety, need staffing for it. Continual stream of funding.
Ability to acquire. Space for classes, meeting area. _
Combination of Museum and Archives. Closed stacks, generate money through research and copies.
Does not see programming as museum would do education and exhibits.
Nice place. Ability to take in more records.
Likes what Johnson County has been able to do with their research center. Admits much research is being
done online.
Should start small with opportunity to grow (space). Should provide opportunity for hands-on documents.
Virtual should come later.
Professional on staff. Museum and heritage center combined (Ideal) Though hard to get new structure
built in town. free to public, charging for copies, etc. Business hours, not by appointment.
Educational and Cultural center of Orange County including art, literature. Who is collecting today's
things?
See this as a two step process: First digitize-virtual collection... then maybe building can be done if
significant primary source collections are available. Asked what will be collected? Who will be writing
collection's policy?
26
8) What collections would you solicit or think should be solicited? Do you plan to solicit any collections for
your institution?
Should get the Mary Claire Engstrum collection from NC Collection at UNC. Also wanted to get the Cone
Mill Archives in Greensboro.
family history, ephemera
Handle what we have now. What is priority for county? Capture things from county- mills and
businesses.
There are pockets of town history we don't cover such as African American history
Photographers, local history book writers papers
Not aware of private collections. However a building would draw some collections along with money.
Older families might have things... like Blackhorns and Straylings.
Sanborn maps for Hillsboro, Orange County. Architectural survey information for Orange Co., Hillsboro,
and Chapel Hill, Archaeology materials from review of properties; Maps
Mary Claire Engstrom -not sure if it has been given somewhere.
Jean Anderson - at the Forest at Duke-she is historian... where is her research?
Lucille Dulda-Wrote History of Hillsborough
Evelyn Lloyd -Father co-authored a history of Hillsborough
Consultant: Churches, fraternal organizations, etc..
9) Other thoughts or comments.
Believes that the $140,000 bequest that the library has should be used for the Heritage Center.
If Purchase Building were available, then people could park at visitor center.
Not sure this will enhance tourism. People within county do research.
Where are resources? Building, funding, students from UNC
Doesn't think stand alone building would work. (to bring in tourism) Need programming with archives.
Suggested monthly programs using UNCCH professors. Or genealogy workshgps. -No place to do
research. It would bring things together. Workshops could bring in modest revenue.
What if everything were digitized? Everything can be accessed, no center, don't have to come to
Hillsborough.
Doesn't see this as an area TO KEEP ARCHIVES, BUT TO DO RESEARCH.
Not sure if everyday citizens are following issues, not aware of "what happened:'
In the old library sat in quiet area... SENSE OF HISTORIC PLACE.
Challenge
1) See if we have a suitable building
2) What will be management style?
3) Operational dollars -budgets & grants
27
If the Hillsboro museum got it, they would need publicfprivate partnership
Vision of Heritage Center- Educational and Cultural center of Orange County including art, literature.
Who is collecting todat/s things?
Heritage center a wonderful addition to cultural tourism. Currently not one single repository... need for
an archival unit.
If the Heritage Center was placed under library it would create havoc as it would take precedent over the
Carrboro library... which was promised in 1996
The one skill not at the table during this evaluation was an archivist.
A business plan was needed to "separate the enthusiasm from the facts." Scope
document was produced. Showed~who had what. Who was willing to give what.
After surveying aII the agencies it would be a "waste of money to build building
for copies of copies," need to scan and provide digitally.
No need to add ANOTHER NON-PROFIT.
This could be done only if economically sustainable.
It has a possible economic function. Feels they will find more materials once opened.
za
Attachment D
Review of Buildings in Hillsborough
Purchasing and Central Services Building
129 E. King Street
Hillsborough, NC
Approximately 6200 sq. ft.
This building is very linear in design. It was constructed approximately in the mid 1960s and served first
as a furniture store. At some time it was purchased by the county and reconfigured for office purposes.
It has three distinct spaces. Its current configuration can be briefly described as a series of offices on
both sides of the building, with a central corridor to access each office. This space is on one heatJac
system.
The second space is comprised of two rooms at the end of this corridor that currently house the
telephone switching station for the city and the computer system for the city. This area is heated and
cooled with a second heat/ac system, to keep the machinery very cool. A third heating and cooling
system is a backup system to this area should the normal system fail.
It is anticipated that within the next several months that the equipment in these two rooms will be
removed from the building.
The original hard wood floors are throughout the first and second areas, as is the original wooden
ceiling. The offices were created by installing sheetrock walls, which are non- load bearing. Therefore,
this space, which is approximately 2/3rds of the building is a well insulated (brick exterior) space with
minimal windows on the east and west sides at the top of the wall. These windows could easily be
closed if needed. There are six windows on the front of the building. The dimensions of this part of the
building is 36' wide x 119"' long.
The third area of the building, the warehouse, (approximately 1/3 the total square footage of the
building) is constructed of cinder block, one block thick. The dimension of this area is 32'7" wide x 60'
long. It has a slab floor. It was added on to the original structure. It is comprised of three rooms. The
walls between the rooms are cinder block but I do not know if they are load bearing. This area does not
appear to be heated or have AC, however, it was not very cold, suggesting it might receive some heat
from the building. There is a rolling door on the rear of the structure. David Cannell stated that the
land immediately behind the building rises up. When it rains, this area can flood in through the rolling
door. Anything in that area was always kept on platforms. Water never reached 6" high.
Sandbags were evident on the interior east wall of this room. Markings on the wall showed that
moisture had been wicked up into the wall. There was red clay on the floor throughout, reflective of
some flooding in the past. There was no standing water, and no odor of dampness or mustiness, which
was surprising.
Reference has sometimes been made to a creek running under the building. Mr. Cannell said that the
warehouse section of the building was built over a natural storm drain. Some water is channeled under
the building and enters into a big storm drain. Mr. Cannell stated that this never caused water problems
with the building.
29
Assessment:
This building might be able to be used to house archives (though is larger than is needed in the
consultant's opinion forjust an archives.) If the Orange County Museum would be interested in being
part of the equation they would need to assess the square footage needed for exhibit space, storage,
etc., to see if it would give them enough space to warrant a move.
The front 2/3rds of the building would need to be reconfigured to accommodate exhibits and /or
archival storage. The sheetrock walls will make this less expensive than dealing with load bearing walls.
Of concern is the narrow width of the building. If the building is only used for archives, the space should
be easily configured to accommodate a research area, office, possible book store and storage (open and
or closed) for the documents/archives.
If the building is used for both expansion of the Orange County Museum and the archives, the floor plan
would need to be very thoughtful to accommodate both. If the museum oversaw the archives the space
for the archives be located toward the back of the building with exhibits, gift shop and lobby up front. If
the museum did not oversee the archives, but was housed in the same building a division of space
would best be accommodated by having the front door open into the middle of the building with
organization on one side or the other. Unfortunately, I don't know if there is space to accommodate a
door on one side or the other.
An evaluation of climate controls in the existing building would be important. Some addition of
humidity controls could be necessary, though the building seemed in good condition and provided space
that probably is better than current conditions in the several historic locations.
I am concerned about the 1/3 of the building that has issues with flooding. I believe that the land
behind the building would need to be reconfigured to prevent or diminish run off into the building.
However, this land belongs to someone else. Additionally, 1 believe that similar brick treatment of the
exterior of the building might help control the environmental issues of this area, but someone with
more expertise should answer this question. The rolling door either needs to be removed, or the floor
level elevated so that issues with water are eliminated. Heat and A/C would need to be added to the
building to be useful to either the museum or heritage center. Because it is the back of the building it
would lend itself mostly to offices or storage... however, storage should not be housed in this portion of
the building without correction of the current problems.
There are two parking spaces associated with this building. However, it is in walking distance of the
Visitor Center, where parking is allowed on the street.
One other consideration: What weight load can the foundation bear if you are going to put archives into
this building?
30
Graham Building
118 N. Churton Street
Hillsborough, NC
762 Square feet
This building is almost square in design. The floor plan supports essentially four rooms with a
small area for a toilet and sink, and a short hall with exterior door to the rear. The entrance
room is the largest of all and if used as a Heritage Center, would be the room to accommodate
research tables and chairs. One room would contain an office. The other two rooms would be
the only space available for file cabinets, shelving and storage. The walls are solid and are load
bearing. The building cannot be reconfigured.
Each room has windows that let in natural light. The areas where archives are stored or viewed
should be protected from light by sealing the windows or shading them.
There are no parking spaces associated with this building, though there is a parking lot just
north and west of the building.
Assessment:
This building might be suitable as an Heritage Center, at least for the next five years, or longer,
depending on how much new material is collected. After monitoring the building for heat and
air fluctuations, there may be a need to do some renovations to enhance the environment for
storage of archival materials. However, the existing space is perceived as a vast improvement
over current storage space at the Orange County Museum.
31
Attachment E
Other Heritage Centers
Johnston County Heritage Center -Stand alone building
January 19, 2010
Spoke to Wingate Lassiter, Director
The Heritage Center was part of the public library. It was outgrowing its space. first Citizens Bank was
across the street and moving out of its building. They gave building to library. Group raised funds to
renovate space. Now a separate part of County Government as it serves the county. Budget: $230,000.
The group annually raises about 1/10`" of the budget through a fund drive.
Has a small museum though doesn't want to collect artifacts. No museum of history in Johnson County
per se. Tobacco museum and Ava Gardner Museum. It is located off 195 and near an Outlet Mall.
Has a small store that sells books that are written on Johnston County.
Houses microfilm of local papers, obituary database. local photos. No real "archives"
Attendance: between 250 & 300 a month or approximately 3500 annually. Doesn't feel it necessarily
drives tourism, though every "now and then" some people come specifically to do research.
Open M -Sat. from 9 to 5
Staff: 1 FT, 4 PT (work 3 days a week), plus volunteers.
Charge $25 an hour for research. $5 to respond to inquiries by mail or email. Has website presence and
people can order books, etc. through pay-pal.
Managed by 18 member county appt. Board.
Have experienced a 3% cut last year. Could be similar this year.
Heritage Room of Union County
Mary Lou Gamble
Hours: Mondays-Wednesdays -10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.; Thursdays -1:00 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Sponsored by:
The Carolinas Genealogical Society
The Union County Historical Society
The Monroe-Union Historic Properties Commission -- county funded 2 part-time people for
preservation committee. Have identified 50 historic buildings in Union
Sells local history books
Each organization contributes to
Grants
County furnishes building (3 rooms) pay utilities and upkeep.
32
Never part of the library- Genealogy Room in library endowed with $100,000 by Dickerson Family
2 part time staff for Historic Preservation Commission. (2 days, and 2'/:)
About 10 volunteers.
Try to have 3 people a day.
Budget: Not set budget
Photos, newsletters, surname file
Wants to have museum in the building.
High Point Public Library -Heritage Center (in the library)
See approximately 200 - 400 per month... or approximately 3600 - 4000 per year
Open same hours as library
NC Room of Wilson Library
Visitors to NC Collection 2008-09 Approximately 6,000. About 2/3rds are from campus,
1/3 from away.
Normal day is between 7 to 15 researchers.
Greatest is 25, and that is only 5% of days open.
33
Attachment E
Grant Possibilities
Thomas Kenan III Foundation Could receive up to $25,000, not specified
Cannon Foundation Prefer construction upwards to $100,000
Tourism Cares $7500 to 10,000, brick and mortar for historic structures
Hillsborough Tourism Foundation $250 - $25,000
Duke Endowment Child care, Health care, Rural Church and Higher Education (limited
funding currently)
F. M. Kirby Foundation Upwards of $150,000
LSTA(NC ECHO Digitization grant $150,000 annually for collaborative project
Need $1 for $10 match
LSTA Technology Grants $150,000 annually for collaborative project
Need $1 for $4 match
National Endowment for the Humanities
Humanities Collections and $350,000 up to 3 years (funds up to 67Y)
Reference Resources (finding aids,
cataloguing, digitization)
Preservation and Access Education $125,000 (sometimes match needed)
And Training (digitization, training,
preservation & prevention)
Preservation Assistance Grants for Up to $6000
Smaller Institutions (individual org. help to
Preserve and organize materials, purchase shelving, etc.)
Sustaining Cultural Heritage Collections
Planning Grants: $40,000 (no more than SOY of cost)
To assess preventative conservation strategies
fmplementa[ion Grants: $400,000 (no more than SOY of cost}
Recommission heating(AC, humidity, but not in
new construction
Institute for Museum and Library Services
Museums forAmerica
Connecting to Collections
National Archives
Basic Archives Pro/ect
Making Archives accessible
Detailed Processing
Historically significant archives
NC Preservation Consortium
Up to $150,000
Up to $250,000
Up to $200,000
$40,000 up to $200,000
$2,000 for organizing/preservingcallections
One thought regarding gronis, one organization will need to submit on behalf of the group unless you establish another SOSC3
34
ATTACHMENT #3
North Carolina
DIGITAL HERITAGE CENTER
23 March 2010
Barbaza Baker
6 Crestbury Court
Durham, NC 27713
Dear Ms. Baker:
I enjoyed meeting with you and the group working on the Orange County. Heritage Center. I think it
sounds like an exciting and important project and 1 was glad to have the opportunity to learn more about it.
I am working with a new program called the North Carolina Digital Heritage Center, which is based in
the North Carolina Collection at UNC-Chapel Hill. We will be working with cultural heritage institutions
across the state to help them share selected materials from their collections online. As one of our pilot
projects, we will present some materials from the Orange County Historical Museum (probably around 40
to 50 items). I met with Darcie Martin about this a few weeks ago, and she and her colleagues are going
to choose a handful of representative materials from the collection to be digitized and displayed online.
Beyond the initial pilot projects, I'm afraid I can't yet be specific about how many projects we will be
working on and how the projects will be selected, Our advisory board will meet for the first time in May
and we will begin to work out many of these issues. Criteria for new projects will be posted on our
website as soon as it is available. The Digital Heritage Center bas a statewide mission and will seek to
work with collections throughout North Carolina, I can say for certain that we will be available to consult
with cultural heritage institutions in Orange County about digital projects. I understand that there are
incredibly rich collections in organizations througlout Orange County and I am happy to suggest
resources and tools for you to use as you work to share these with others,
Sie erely, ~~'h~,"_ _
Nicholas Gmham
Program Coordinator, North Carolina Digital Heritage Center
cc: Robert Anthony
Gwendolyn Harvey
North Carolina Digital Heritage Center 919.9629590 ngraham@email.unc.edu