Did you know that only 5% of the GRPM’s collections are on display at the Museum? Fortunately, our online Digital Collections provide the community with a unique opportunity to explore thousands of artifacts and specimens, both on display and in storage. Whether you’re conducting research or working on an art project, or just searching for fun, this online treasure trove offers endless possibilities for discovery.

One GRPM volunteer, Kimberly, had a brilliant idea to make use of these easy-to-use resources. 

As a recreational therapist at a senior living facility in Grand Rapids, Kimberly works with residents diagnosed with dementia. She is responsible for creating, coordinating, and leading daily programming that engages residents cognitively, socially, and emotionally. 

At the GRPM, Kimberly is a Discovery Cart Volunteer. Discovery Carts put artifacts and specimens right in the hands of visitors, creating memorable experiences that spark curiosity. As she educates guests about the artifacts, she often encourages them to visit the Digital Collections to learn more and follow their curiosity toward new discoveries.

Through this work, she realized that exploring Collections provided a perfect walk down memory lane. With a large TV, Kimberly pulled up the digital Furniture Collection for the residents, bringing Museum artifacts right into their home.

“The residents and I spent about 45-60 minutes looking through different pieces, reading the descriptions, and conversing about the pieces,” said Kimberly. “They specifically liked reading about pieces with ties to Grand Rapids and names they recognized, like Steelcase. I was able to use the pictures of the furniture to prompt reminiscing conversations.”

She asked about the furniture in their childhood homes, whether they would want to put the pieces of furniture in their own homes, how they thought it was used, and how furniture evolved. The residents strongly connected with these nostalgic images, sharing stories, and responding to one another. 

“This population is interested in history, which can feel much more familiar and comfortable than the present moment,” said Kimberly.

Museum staff were overjoyed to hear about this program’s impact on the residents.

“I think most of us imagine online learning happening in a classroom or homeschool group,” said Anishinaabe Curator, Katrina Furman. “I love that seniors are also able to connect with the materials for a meaningful experience.”

Anyone can access the GRPM’s Digital Collections and connect directly with our curators. Let us know how you use our Collections! Stories like this one are an excellent reminder of the importance of Museums in preserving our past to inform the present and imagine our future.