Proper storage makes it easier to find things, leading to quicker set up for services and events. It also helps protect supplies as well as important artifacts and documents from damage or loss. Plus, it saves space. This can be crucial for smaller churches where space is already at a premium.
Staying organized helps give the church a professional look. You want visitors to feel welcome and ready to worship. This can be difficult in a cluttered church. So, read through our tips for storing church equipment and supplies.
Evaluate Your Storage Needs
Take inventory of the different types of equipment that should go into storage. Over the years, your church may have been accumulating:
- Liturgical books and hymnals
- Office supplies
- Tools for building maintenance
- Musical instruments
- Pulpit furniture
- Church decorations
- Donated food, clothing, and other items
- Equipment for various church groups or non-profit organizations
Before burying items away, figure out what you need easy access to and what only comes out once a year for a particular service or event.
Determine the amount of space you’ll need, as well as the type of space that’s required. For example, if you’re storing A/V equipment, you should ensure it’s a dry area.
Get Organized
Determine what you need and what can be donated or discarded. It’s understandable that this is easier said than done, especially if certain items have sentimental value. But if there are enough items you can part with, you may be able to organize a yard sale for your church fundraising event.
Label and categorize the items you’re keeping, so you can put them together. Bins are helpful when grouping smaller items. Create a map of the church with the storage areas labeled. This will make it easier for a new staff member or volunteer to find any needed items.
If you end up getting an off-site storage unit or shed, staying organized can be a real time saver. You won’t have to travel out to it every time you’re looking for something.
Get Creative with the Space You Have
If you’re running low on space in your church storage room or closet, you may have to get creative. Maybe your church has high ceilings — find a safe way to add shelving or a loft for storage. There could be space below a stage, a stairway, or seating you can utilize. Or, an empty spot on the wall could be the perfect spot to add shelves, pegboard, or hooks.
If there’s an odd nook in a church office, classroom, or nursery, you might be able to find storage furniture at a garage sale. You can also custom order a cabinet that will fit the space perfectly.
When you’re purchasing new equipment, keep church storage in mind. If you need stackable chairs or folding tables that are stored easily, shop with ChurchPlaza today.
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| Church Facility Management Guide |
