Since the late 1970s, I have been working with archival collections, community libraries, local historical societies and associations, and even a state history museum. I have researched, fact-checked, edited, and proofed labels . . . helped put together brochures and promotional materials for museum events . . . helped develop lesson plans, audiovisual scripts, and classroom discussion guides . . . assisted in compiling multi-page exhibition study guides and docent manuals . . . and led production of a variety of other publications to complement exhibits and museum events.

Many of the writers and contributors I have worked with over the years have been subject specialists, analysts, and professors—people who without a doubt “know their stuff,” but who often stumble when trying to convey their knowledge to the general public. From these relationships, I have come to enjoy helping to outline, draft (even ghostwrite when necessary), and revise their ideas and concepts into understandable and readable messages.

Note that, in working with museum groups, I have found it is usually beneficial to consider working in project teams so that the ideas and suggestions of all involved—curators, researchers, reviewers, educators, and designers—can be brought together throughout the project, while visions can still be recognized, negotiated, and implemented—before the time is too late.