Prairie State Wire

The Illinois State Museum is temporarily closing its flagship facility to visitors beginning Thursday, Aug. 1 to accommodate a plumbing project that will involve asbestos removal and construction. The project is expected to last three months.

Museum staff who ordinarily work at the main facility will be based at the Research and Collections Center for the duration of the closure. Objects and artifacts that could be damaged by vibrations or proximity to the construction work have been covered or removed for storage and proper care.

During the temporary closure, museum staff will go on the road with community programming and exhibits. In addition, the Museum's facilities at the Lockport Gallery in Will County and Dickson Mounds Museum in Fulton County will remain open to the public. The Museum also can be found at the First Lady's Tent during the Illinois State Fair, Aug. 8-18.

"While we are sad to close the Illinois State Museum for a few months, we're excited about the improvements to the building and thrilled for the opportunity to serve the community through special programming and events," said Jenn Edginton, acting director of the Museum. "Our team has been hard at work so that we can continue to bring the spirit of the Illinois State Museum to the people we serve."

Illinois State Museum programs and exhibits can be found at numerous partner locations during the closure, including Vinegar Hill Mall, Lincoln Library, Henson-Robinson Zoo, Dana-Thomas House State Historic Site, and others.

Details about special programming will be announced during the course of the closure but they include highlights such as:

- Taste of ISM: A lunch-and-learn program celebrating the work and passion of the Illinois State Museum team. Join museum staff at the Research and Collections Center in Springfield for stories of art, history, science, and museums.

- Fine Art Fridays: Spend time with art from the Museum's collection and be inspired to start an art collection of your own.

- Educator's Book Club: Open to educators of all grade levels to learn more about history, art, and science through reading and discussion. Teachers will earn professional development credits for participating.

For a full list of programs and special events, check the Illinois State Museum's community calendar online.

About the Illinois State Museum: Established in 1877, ISM is a dynamic institution that inspires exploration of Illinois' past and present to inform everyday life and promote stewardship of cultural and natural resources. Headquartered in Springfield with branch facilities in Lewistown and Lockport, ISM is accredited by American Alliance of Museums and a member of International Coalition of Sites of Conscience.