One of the Cummer Museum’s resources is tucked away beyond the walls of visitors: the Cummer Library. Broken into three sections (exhibition catalogues, historical reference books, and periodicals), the library’s collection represents the scope of t
he Museum’s Permanent Collection. It is a valuable research tool for Museum staff, docents, and interested visitors.
The library is maintained by a generous team of volunteers and is managed by the Curatorial Department. Currently staffed with six volunteers, the library is a source of great pride to those who have supported its fruitful history. Recently, some of the regular volunteers told us why they give their time to the library.
“…I give my time to the Museum because of the graciousness and warmth of my colleagues that I have never really received previously.” -Mack McVeigh
“It’s something that I can do in my retirement since I was a cataloger at University of North Florida. My supervisor at UNF informed me of the backlog and told me that that I could be useful and a major support in this manner.” – Anglea Randtke
“Volunteers tend to get involved and are more knowledgeable, and [with this] the Cummer Museum tends to have things that I like.” -Helen Euston
“When I relocated to Jacksonville in 2009, I was searching for a volunteer opportunity in a library environment where my expertise could be used. When I became a Cummer Museum member, I noticed a need for volunteers and inquired. Holly Keris and Helen Euston were very welcoming and encouraged my participation. …I’m glad to be involved in a museum that reaches out to all segments of the Jacksonville community and partners with others for the betterment of all.” -Georgia
“My two loves are arts and scholarship. I volunteer with the Cummer Library because I hope it will be a community center of art scholarship.” -Linda Smith
