EP 1130-2-550
15 Nov 96
(1) All equipment used in Visitor Centers should be generic off-the-shelf products,
selected for dependability, ease of maintenance, longevity and low operating costs.
(2) A contract or other type agreement should be negotiated for any equipment repairs
beyond the skills of the staff. Backup equipment should be available to maintain display
operations.
e. Security. Security features should be included in the Visitor Center. Many of these
features may be passive in nature such as proper lighting, adequate locking systems and key
control, unobstructed views of windows and entrance ways, and alarm systems. At many Visitor
Centers, adjacent facilities such as powerhouses, may require restricted access which will be
controlled by others. Additional security for these areas may be provided by the Park Ranger staff
or contract law enforcement personnel.
f. Audio/Visual Equipment. When old equipment is replaced, or upgraded, and new
displays are developed, every effort will be made to purchase generic, highly dependable, off-the-
shelf equipment with low maintenance costs, that can be readily repaired or replaced.
Audio/visual presentation equipment changes rapidly, making it necessary to purchase equipment
that has the capability of being upgraded. New purchases should be coordinated through the
District or MSC Information Management Office to ensure uniformity.
g. Development and Distribution of Brochures.
(1) Development and funding procedures must follow those established by the District
and Division.
(2) All brochures must meet the guidelines provided in the Graphics Standards Manual
(EP 310-1-6). Information that may become quickly outdated, such as hours of operation, special
events, etc., should be in the form of inserts, or special handout materials. Each center should
conduct a regular review of the effectiveness, accuracy, and relevance of each brochure.
h. Visitor Center and Exhibit Evaluations. The objective of the visitor center evaluation is
to insure that exhibits, facilities, and procedures are in good condition and up-to-date. Specific
evaluation procedures may be developed by the district.
(1) All Visitor Centers and exhibits will be reviewed at least once every five years by a
district level review team. The review team will consist of one representative from each of the
following Division office elements: public affairs, natural resources management, information
management, engineering, and history (if available).
(2) The purpose of the review is to ensure that all facilities are safe and adequate,
equipment is in operating condition, and that audio-visual presentations, photographs, taped
messages, and other interpretive materials are accurate and up-to-date. The review team will
forward their final inspection report to the District Commander who will determine what changes,
if any, will be made. A copy of Regional Visitor Center evaluations will be provided to the MSC.
A sample Visitor Center checklist is shown in Appendix C.
5-4. Planning Guidelines. The master plan or the supplement (if necessary) should address
visitor center facilities and program requirements in general terms. The planning process for any
5-2
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