Representatives of the Tuapeka Goldfields Museum & Visitor Centre in Lawrence made the appeal to the Lawrence-Tuapeka Community Board at its recent meeting.
Museum committee member Kelly Aitken said, under new manager Jess Weichler, the facility had become "the beating heart of Lawrence".
The combined museum and visitor centre sits on the historic gold rush town’s main street, and is operated independently by local volunteers using funding from Clutha District Council and grant sources.
Mrs Aitken said the facility had bounced back from Covid and beyond, since tourism had resumed in earnest.
"We had 8000 visitors last year, and 450 students came and learnt from the museum on site and at various historic sites around the district. A further 6500 people visited [website] Lawrence Online.
"The facility plays an increasingly important function for the town, and operates at a modern, efficient level. Much of this is down to Jess, our manager, who has worked out splendidly since she took on the role in July 2021."
Mrs Aitken said, due to central government museum hardship funding running out, Ms Weichler had been operating on a part-time voluntary basis once more since October.
She said this was "unfair" on Ms Weichler, who deserved a living wage.
"Volunteers donate about 800 free hours to the museum each year, but Jess’ contribution cannot be underestimated, and we’d like to continue to fund her role properly."
She said the committee was seeking a $38,000 part-time salary for Ms Weichler, in addition to current council funding of $55,000 used for operating costs.
Ms Weichler said the museum would make a formal submission to the council’s long-term plan process beginning later this month, requesting the funding.
"Without staff, we’re just an empty building full of old things."
The community board agreed to endorse the request.
