The First Five Things to Do

Now the Resource Room Lady has a face and a name...and a big job ahead! The room is built, but it is empty and waiting. Here are some things she will need to do to get the room up and running.

1. A place for everything and everything in its place. The shelves, hanging rods, and filing cabinets are in place. Now it’s time to decide on a system of storage. Each location in the room needs a "name.” As each visual is completed, it should be labeled with the name and location where it will be stored.

2. A picture is worth a thousand words. Libraries have card catalogs, and the visual aid library should have a catalog as well. It could be as simple as a typed list that is updated regularly or as elaborate as a computer database. Take a picture to complete the record so anyone can identify the visual.

3. Set up a check out system. The biggest complaint we hear about un-managed visual aid collections is that the materials tend to grow feet and walk away, never to be seen again. A check-out system addresses that problem. Create some kind of check-out system so there is a written record of who took the materials out of the room and when.

4. Learn how stuff works. New laminators, copiers, paper cutters, projectors, etc. may be purchased for the resource room. Training videos on CD or online are often available; sometimes the company you purchase from will send someone to train you. Take the time to learn how to use the equipment so you’ll know what to do when the toner runs out or the laminator heat shoes need cleaning. And while you are at it, make a list of all equipment, model numbers, serial numbers, etc. for insurance purposes. Give that list to whoever keeps such records for the church.

5. Familiarize yourself with the curriculum. Some congregations study the same lessons at the same time; in other congregations, every class studies different lessons with different quarterly themes. No matter what curriculum is used, become familiar with the system. Keep a chart in the room so the staff and teachers know what is being taught in each class.

Now that these tasks are completed, it is time to go to work adding supplies and visuals to the resource room! May God bless you as you work in His kingdom!