Tim Burge - Museums Officer (Documentation)

I have been a member of the Museums Advisory Service Team since May 2008, having spent the previous 11 years working in museums in Yorkshire. My working day involves supporting the many and varied museums across Wiltshire. This ranges from helping with curatorial work to providing training, assisting with funding applications and mounting displays. I am also responsible for advice, training and standards for museum documentation across the county. This ensures that all the museums collections are recorded properly and accurately so that they can be used and enjoyed by as many people as possible. I really enjoy being able to get out and about to meet and work with the dedicated staff and volunteers who run Wiltshire’s museums. The diversity of collections they look after ensures that no two working days are ever the same.

Jacqui Ramsay - Documentation Assistant

I graduated with a degree in English & Drama in 1984, but soon moved into the world of archives, working at the National Monuments Record for 11 years and acting as the Architectural Records Manager there. After a break looking after a young family, I joined the Museums Advisory Service in November 2007, as Documentation Assistant, working with the Wiltshire Historic Print and Photograph collection, a wonderful archive with a multitude of various subjects concerning the county, from architecture to portraits.  As well as re-filing the collection itself I am also editing the relevant computerised records, a lengthy task but essential for efficient retrieval.

I also work on the various museum records that are sent to the Service to be added to or amended on the MODES database. This is another excellent way of obtaining information quickly, and I have the added bonus of learning about each museums collections on a daily basis.

Philippa Bailey - Museums Advisory Service Secretary

I have been working at the Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre since June 2007.  I have worked for local government since 1996, but the Museums Advisory Service is a totally new and interesting area of work for me. 
My role is part-time secretary and involves carrying out secretarial and admin tasks for the Conservation Service and Museums Manager and the two Museums Officers.  I am also part of the general admin team at the centre and cover for reception when required.