ELY – The Dorothy Molter Museum is preparing to launch an online registration system this week as it opens for the season. New procedures allow for daily one-hour reservation blocks for up to 10 people at one time to align with required social distancing guidelines due to the coronavirus pandemic. Once this system is live, it will be linked via the museum’s website under the “Visit” tab.
Blocks will be available 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, beginning Monday, June 15 and museum officials will evaluate the schedule and make changes as needed, according to Executive Director Jess Edberg.
Those wishing to reserve an hour time slot before the system goes live may call 218-365 4451 or email info@rootbeerlady.com.
“We will be able to take reservations via phone where we walk the customer through the process of pre-registration and take pre-payment,” Edberg said. “We will try to do a brief, introductory mini-tour, as staffing allows, for each reservation, but we will not physically guide groups through the cabins like we have in past seasons.”
The museum has implemented a safety plan that includes physical barriers between staff and visitors in the Interpretive Center and Gift Shop, adapted visitor guides for proper disinfection after each use, and a one-way entrance/exit system that may be altered for those with physical mobility limitations.
“We created a cleaning protocol after each group, every four hours, and at the end of the day,” she said.
A virtual museum tour can be accessed online. A free downloadable phone app with imagery and audio can be used as an alternate tour guide while exploring the facility. Details are at www.rootbeerlady.com/tour-virtually.  
Requirements for visitors include:
• Visitors are required to wear a mask covering their nose and mouth. Disposable masks are available for $1.
• Visitors are required to use the hand-sanitizer upon entering the Interpretive Center. The bathroom sink is available for hand-washing.
• Visitors should adhere to all directional and instructional signage.
• Only touch retail merchandise if there is an intent to purchase.
“Our new health safety protocol information will be clearly communicated during the online and phone registration process,” Edberg said. “Visitors are welcome to contact us via our social channels or email with questions.”