Press

Media Contact:
JP O’Hare
(518) 474-1201
Press@nysed.gov
www.nysed.gov

New Daily Themes Provide Engaging Experiences for All Interests 
Downloadable Photos Are Available Here

The New York State Museum is thrilling audiences of all ages with a new, dynamic lineup of weekday programs, officially launching this week. Visitors can now explore a different public program every Tuesday through Friday—ensuring there’s always something new to discover! 

Offered in collaboration with the New York State Library, New York State Archives, the Archives Partnership Trust, and Public Broadcasting Stations across the state, these programs celebrate the rich tapestry of New York’s history, art, and science. Whether you’re exploring the Museum’s extensive collections, delving into engaging stories for young audiences, or learning directly from expert scientists and historians, there’s an adventure for everyone. Best of all, these FREE programs provide the perfect opportunity to make lasting memories while uncovering the incredible resources of the Museum, Library, and Archives. 

Each weekday has its own unique focus, allowing visitors to tailor their experience to specific interests or return throughout the week for fresh adventures. Come explore, learn, and be inspired! 

Exciting Daily Themes 

Tuesdays – “Discover New York Stories on Screen” 
12:00 PM | Huxley Theater 
Kick off your Tuesday in the Huxley Theater for a fascinating visual journey through our state’s past and present. Watch PBS documentaries, archival footage, and classic films that spotlight New York’s diverse heritage, artistic accomplishments, and scientific milestones. 

Wednesdays – “Museum Storytime Adventures” 
10:30 AM | Kids Cove 
Join the New York State Library for a captivating story time that ties directly to the Museum’s exhibits. Each week brings a new theme—read with a friendly mastodon, sing along with the birds, or dance by the iconic carousel. Perfect for young learners and their families, this interactive program sparks imagination and encourages a lifelong love of reading and discovery. 

Thursdays – “Archives Jr. Investigation Station” 
10:30 AM | Kids Cove
Uncover New York’s hidden stories through New York Archives Jr. Magazine! Hands-on activities inspired by real archival treasures let children dig into the past and uncover why preserving our personal histories matters. 

Fridays – “Exploration with Experts” 
12:00 PM | Various Locations 
Venture behind the scenes with the Museum’s scientists and historians. Each Friday offers unique opportunities to tour exhibits with curators, watch scientific research in action, or gain deeper insights into key moments in New York’s past. It’s an exclusive peek into the world of discovery—perfect for curious minds of all ages. 

Kat Morehouse, New York State Museum Coordinator of Public Programs said, "We are beyond thrilled to introduce this dynamic programming, carefully crafted to deliver engaging and enriching experiences for visitors of all ages. Whether you're a history buff, an eager learner, or a curious family looking for fun, there's something here for everyone. We can't wait to welcome you to explore the incredible treasures waiting at the Museum, Library, and Archives!"  

Michael Mastroianni, Interim Deputy Commissioner for Cultural Education said, “Our goal is to establish the Museum as a go-to destination for family-friendly programming that educates, inspires, and entertains. We are committed to providing experiences that ignite curiosity, foster a love of learning, and cultivate a profound connection to our history and culture. Whether you're stepping into the past, engaging with groundbreaking science, or simply seeking inspiration, these programs will leave a lasting impact!" 

For a full schedule of events, detailed descriptions, and the latest updates, please visit the New York State Museum Public Programs webpage. Come explore, learn, and be inspired—your next adventure awaits! 

About the Cultural Education Center     

>Established in 1836, the New York State Museum is the oldest and largest public museum in the United States. Home to leading scientists, historians, archeologists, and anthropologists, its collections represent the State’s rich cultural and natural heritage from the past and present, including a staggering 20+ million artifacts spanning 1.1 billion years ago to today. Located at 222 Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Admission is free. For additional information, visit the New York State Museum website.     

The New York State Library is part of the Office of Cultural Education within the New York State Education Department. Visit the New York State Library website for a complete list of upcoming programs. To receive news, resources, and other updates, please subscribe to the quarterly newsletter.      

The New York State Archives holds many of the oldest and most important archival treasures in the nation. The Archives preserves and makes accessible over 250 million records of New York’s State and colonial governments dating from 1630 to the present. The State Archives provides free access to photographs, artifacts, documents, manuscripts, and other materials that tell the story of New York’s history via its Digital Collections on the Archives website.      

The Archives Partnership Trust was founded in 1992 to build an endowment and provide project support to enhance humanities programs, increase access to these outstanding treasures, and continue the preservation of New York's historical records. Since its founding, the Partnership Trust, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has supported exceptional projects and programs. These include the Research Residency Program, the Student Research Awards Program, history conferences, special exhibitions, public education programs, book signings and lectures, publications, teacher training institutes, preservation projects, and more.     

The State Museum, State Library, and State Archives are programs of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education. Further information about programs and events can be obtained by calling (518) 474-5877 or by visiting the Office of Cultural Education website.     

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