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North York's Gibson House remains closed as mechanical upgrades to the facility continue.

Curator Elizabeth Nelson-Raffael says the upgrades will make the temperatures in the building more comfortable for visitors and help protect the artifacts. The museum is scheduled to reopen Oct. 31, however, Nelson-Raffael says this date may be pushed forward.

There are two aspects to the upgrades. The first one is to stabilize the ceiling, which dropped six to eight inches in February. Also, the museum is looking to have modern forced-air vents installed to create better climate control for the artifacts and guests.

In the 1970s museums used radiant heat technology. This was a benefit to such spaces because it is unobtrusive and helped add to the atmosphere of the museum.

The downside to radiant heat is that "it doesn't last forever," Nelson-Raffael says.

With today's technology, forced air vents are very small and not as visible as they once were. "This is great for the artifacts," the curator says.

The museum will be open before the end of the year and will host a special storytelling event on Dec. 6.

For those planning to visit the museum in early November, call ahead to ensure the site is open.

Gibson House is at 5172 Yonge St. Hours are Tuesday to Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Cost: adults $5.48, seniors and students $3.10, children $2.62. Prices do not include GST. Limited free parking.

For more information, e-mail gibsonhouse@toronto.ca or call 416-395-7432.

-Angeline Mair