The Qualicum Beach Museum has come a long way since its beginnings in 1982 and it now wants to expand to make the museum a place “where the visitor experience is more than a little history.”
That was the new vision statement put forward by the Qualicum Beach Historical and Museum Society during their presentation to Qualicum Beach council on Dec.4.
They went over their strategic/business plan for 2019 and 2020, including plans for the revitalization of their main building. The museum plans to design two or three new exhibits by March 2020 that focus on early Qualicum Beach — a look into the people who lived here and early industry.
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The museum went over some of their achievements as well. Netanja Waddell, the manager at the museum, brought up their exhibit on Indigenous languages, which she said has been a highlight.
“I just feel really strongly that that was a big achievement and something that is bringing visitors in — local and beyond,” said Waddell. “Importantly, schools and classrooms.”
Waddell said a priority for them is expanding their school programs, and want to use part of the grant they hope to get from the BC Arts Council to fund a special project focusing on school programming.
“This year we’ve applied to sort of redevelop our school programs in light of all the changes, the current changes that have occurred in the curriculum,” said Waddell. “It is fitting because the changes in the curriculum are more about letting children sort of learn on their own.”
Other things brought up include updates to the website, more public participation and contribution and developing a fund for administration and office space.
“It really really is impressive what you guys do with the limited budget that you have,” said Coun. Adam Walker. “I have only heard good things about the museum.”