State Museum, Library and Archives to Re-Open May 17, 2021 With COVID-19 Protocols in Place

The New York State Education Department’s Cultural Education Center will re-open to the public on Monday, May 17, 2021 with new COVID-19 protocols in place, State Education Commissioner Betty A. Rosa announced today. The Cultural Education Center (CEC) in Albany is home to the State Museum, State Library and State Archives. The new, temporary hours for the CEC will be Monday through Friday, 10 am – 4 pm. The CEC will be closed on Saturdays and Sundays until further notice and on all state-observed holidays. As always, admission to the Museum, Library and Archives is free.

“The Board and I are happy to reopen the Cultural Education Center to the public while ensuring proper safeguards are in place,” said Board of Regents Chancellor Lester W. Young, Jr. “The Department has worked in partnership with the Executive Chamber, Department of Health and the Office of General Services to ensure visitors have a safe experience while enjoying all that the Cultural Education Center has to offer.”

“We are excited to welcome the public back to our wonderful exhibits and resources at the Cultural Education Center,” said Commissioner Rosa. “While we’ve remained connected by offering virtual events and resources online, we are delighted to once again provide an enjoyable experience for in-person visitors with the necessary COVID-19 precautions in place.”

The CEC has taken all precautions for visitor safety in accordance with New York State and CDC COVID-19 practices and restrictions, including :

Masks will be required for visitors over the age of two.
Capacity per institution, floor and/or gallery will be limited to allow for safe social distancing.
The Museum will not be scheduling or allowing tour groups of more than 10 individuals until further notice.

The Museum, Library and Archives have been closed to the public since March 16, 2020, in accordance with state policy in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Some areas of the Museum will remain closed until further notice, including the café, Museum shop, Discovery Place, Native Peoples of New York, and the 4th Floor Terrace and carousel.

Information About Reservations

Per COVID-19 restrictions, visitors to the Museum and Library should make advance reservations online or by phone to schedule admission. Walk-in admission will be available only as space allows.