Carson City's Nevada State Museum builds upon statewide shutdown with new events, safety guidelines
Submitted by Isaiah Burrows on Fri, 07/17/2020 - 2:23pm
When COVID-19 reached Carson City in March, establishments and local businesses were forced to close during the statewide shutdown.
In the midst of a global pandemic, the Nevada State Museum took an optimistic approach to improve and expand its online network. The shutdown offered new opportunities for museum director Myron Freedman to connect with staff members virtually through Zoom Video Communications and update local visitors on social media.
“It had a huge impact in many ways,” Freedman said. “We had to reduce the hours of the staff to keep up with budget costs. But we’ve been able to expand our network and connect with others in this great city, and we’re grateful for that.”
Located at 600 N. Carson Street, Nevada State Museum reopened on June 16 and has several events for the public throughout the summer. Coin press demonstrations are held Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. to go along with behind-the-scenes tours, exhibits and lecture series for families to enjoy.
The museum’s shop reopened on July 1 with business hours from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. The store carries a diverse selection of Nevada books, t-shirts, jewelry and unique gift items.
After a three-month delay, Freedman is excited to see things return to a sense of normal at the museum.
“With certain preparations we were able to reopen and we’re excited to be back,” he said. “We have a lot in store for the rest of the year… I’ve been delighted with everyone staying safe and visiting the museum.”
The Nevada State Museum enforced strict safety measures to customers and staff since its reopening. Social distancing of at least six feet and masks are required, and groups larger than 10 people are not allowed unless pre-arranged. Debit or credit card payments are accepted only for admissions and store sales. No food or drink is allowed, excluding bottled water.
Health signage and directional arrows are posted throughout the museum to help guests follow the safety guidelines. Freedman said barriers are also put up to protect guests and staff members.
“Our highest priority is the safety of our visitors and staff and we will continue to do so,” he said. “These are the people we do our best to care for and we’ll follow whatever the state of Nevada enforces to keep us all safe.”
As the museum continues to adhere to state guidelines, Freedman and company keep finding ways to improve for interested participants. Virtual events can be a possibility for kids to further enhance their knowledge of Nevada’s rich history.
The Nevada State Museum is built upon understanding and celebrating the Silver State’s natural and cultural heritage. Even in unprecedented times, their motto will stay that way.
“I’m just happy to serve Nevada again with this cultural experience,” Freedman said. “People are pent up from the pandemic, and we’re offering a unique service with strict guidelines in place to keep everyone safe.”
The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission is $8 for adults and free for kids 17 and under and museum members. For more information, visit their official website here and follow their Facebook page.
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