Without them, says White River Valley Museum Director Patricia Cosgrove, the museum probably could not operate.

We’re talking volunteer docents. The meeter-greeter-guard-type folks.

Now WRVM has sent out its once-a-year come hither, inviting volunteer docents and those dreaming of docentry to attend its annual volunteer training, from 10:30 a.m., to 1:30 p.m., Jan. 19 at the museum.

“Each year in January, we provide half-a-day training with lunch for our volunteers that work in the museum. We review some in-depth information on our permanent exhibits, and of course we review their work,” Cosgrove explained.

According to Janet Wells, WRVM’s volunteer and facility coordinator, the museum will queue up presentations on all aspects of the museum’s permanent exhibits, including the inspiration for the 1924 town scene and those nifty new hands-on exhibits.

Next, Guest Curator Kate Slaminko will provide an introduction to the new temporary show: “Small Bags for Big Events: 100 Years of Pretty Purses.”

Finally, WRVMeducators will preview 2016 activities at the museum and at the Mary Olson Farm on Green River Road.

Typically. the museum asks volunteers who complete the training to volunteer for two, three-hour shifts each month.

“If you like people, if you like history, and you want to be here and find out more about what we are doing, it’s the best place to be,” Cosgrove said.

Lunch will be served, but attendees must RSVP the museum by Jan. 13.