ILLINOIS, October 31 - Museum was closed to accommodate construction project

SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois State Museum will reopen its flagship museum in Springfield to visitors on Monday, Nov. 4 following a plumbing construction project that necessitated a temporary closure.

The museum at 502 S. Spring St. will reopen at 9 a.m. Monday. Hours are 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 4:30 p.m. Sunday. The museum will be open on Tuesday, Nov. 5, which is a holiday for state employees.

The construction project is ongoing, so several exhibits will continue to be closed temporarily, including the Mary Ann MacLean Play Museum. Visit the museum's website and Facebook page for updates. The project is expected to be completed by early March.

"The Illinois State Museum belongs to everyone, and our staff is excited to welcome visitors back," said Jenn Edginton, interim director of the Illinois State Museum. "Admission is always free, so stop in to rediscover your favorite exhibits and learn something about Illinois that's completely new to you."

The Illinois State Museum's On the Road series continues, bringing museum programming into the community during the construction project. Go online for a schedule of events and an exhibit schedule.

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