As we step into 2024, the McHenry County Historical Society & Museum's Research Center is filled with gratitude and excitement for the positive changes that have shaped our space. The unwavering support from our local community has truly illuminated our journey.
Light of Community Support:
Thanks to your incredible generosity and community spirit, our Research Center is now adorned with brand-new LED lights and fixtures! These upgrades not only enhance the ambiance but, more importantly, improve lighting conditions for our valuable collection materials. Say goodbye to the days of fluorescent light degradation—our treasures are now basking in the glow of modern, preservation-friendly illumination. It's a bright start to the new year, indeed!
Oral History Project: Seeking New Horizons:
Our Oral History Project is poised for exciting developments in 2024. The project is in its initial stages, and with the tremendous support we received on Giving Tuesday, we are now actively seeking grants to further fuel this endeavor. Your generosity has set the stage for capturing the voices and stories that make our community unique. Stay tuned as we embark on this enriching journey, with work set to begin in earnest later this year.
Welcoming Betsy to the Team:
A warm welcome to our newest team member, Betsy! Bringing her skills as a history teacher to our dedicated group of volunteers, Betsy adds a fresh perspective and enthusiasm to our endeavors. We're thrilled to have her on board and look forward to the collaborative contributions she'll bring to our community-focused initiatives.
Weathering the Storms:
As we express our sincere apologies for any weather-related delays affecting research requests and communication, please know that our commitment to serving remains unwavering. Despite challenges, our team is working diligently to ensure that your inquiries and needs are addressed as promptly as possible. Thank you for your understanding and continued support.
New Year's Resolutions:
As we set our sights on the possibilities that 2024 holds, here are a few resolutions that will guide us in our mission:
1. Preserve, Share, Connect: Our primary goal is to continue preserving our community's rich history, sharing it with you, and fostering meaningful connections. Your stories are the heartbeat of our collection, and we are dedicated to ensuring they endure for generations to come.
2. Embrace Innovations: We pledge to explore innovative ways to make historical resources more accessible and engaging. Whether through digital initiatives or community events, we aim to bring history to life in exciting and accessible ways.
3. Strengthen Community Bonds: Building and strengthening connections within our community is at the core of what we do. We'll be working on initiatives to deepen our engagement and collaboration with local schools, organizations, and individuals who share our passion for preserving history.
4. Continuous Improvement: We commit to ongoing improvements in our processes, services, and facilities. Your feedback is invaluable, and we welcome your input as we strive to create an even more vibrant and responsive Research Center.
Thank You for Being the Light:
As we embark on this new year, we extend our deepest gratitude to every one of you who make up the brilliant constellation of our historical society. Your support, encouragement, and participation are the guiding lights that brighten our path. Here's to a year of discovery, connection, and shared history!
Wishing you a Happy New Year filled with stories waiting to be told and memories waiting to be made.
Warm regards,
The MCHS Research Center Team 📚✨
