Check Out Louisiana Now Gives Library Cardholders Access to Louisiana Museums

State Library pilot program launches in several parishes, planned to expand statewide

BATON ROUGE, La. – Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser and the State Library of Louisiana today announced library cardholders in several parishes can now visit select Louisiana museums free of charge through the new Check Out Louisiana Museums initiative. The pilot program expands the State Library’s Check Out Louisiana campaign to allow library patrons in participating parishes to check out an electronic pass to participating museums at no cost.

"Louisiana boasts a colorful and fascinating history brought to life through the cultural and educational resources of our museums," said Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser. "Your library card can now be used to unlock Louisiana’s incredible museum collections and the stories of the people, places, and events that make our state so unique and a place to Feed Your Soul.”

Cardholders of participating libraries can visit CheckOutLouisiana.org to reserve an electronic pass for available dates at any of the following museums: the 1850 House, the Cabildo, Capitol Park Museum, E.D. White Historic Site, Louisiana Civil Rights Museum, Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame & Northwest Louisiana History Museum, The National WWII Museum, New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old U.S. Mint, the Presbytère, and the Wedell-Williams Aviation & Cypress Sawmill Museum.

Last year the State Library launched the first phase of its Check Out Louisiana program, which provides free access to state parks and recreational areas. The second phase launched today adds museums and other cultural attractions to the program.

“The National WWII Museum is thrilled to be a partner in the launch of the Check Out Louisiana Museums program,” said Associate Vice President of Education Chrissy Gregg. “Ensuring the museum is accessible to individuals and families across the state is a key goal for our institution. This exciting initiative helps Louisianans experience all the museum has to offer as a community resource and better understand why the war was fought and how it was won - and how it remains relevant to our lives 80 years after its conclusion.”

“We’re excited to partner with the State Library to reach public library patrons who may not yet have had the opportunity to experience our collections and historic locations,” said Louisiana State Museum Director Becky Mackie. “Museums are special community resources providing enrichment and education to the public, and we look forward to welcoming many new visitors through the Check Out Louisiana program.”

"Check Out Louisiana Museums reflects the State Library’s commitment to support lifelong learning," said State Librarian Meg Placke. "The program provides an exciting opportunity to introduce more people to Louisiana’s historical and cultural treasures, and we look forward to expanding the offering to more museums and library systems across the state."

Library systems already taking part in the pilot program include those in Iberville, Livingston, Tangipahoa, and Rapides parishes, as well as the State Library, with more parishes being added soon. During the pilot phase of the program, a limited number of passes are available, and library patrons are urged to plan their museum visit while supplies last.

Local libraries and museums interested in joining the program are asked to contact the State Library at checkoutlouisiana@library.la.gov for more information.

Learn more about the program at CheckOutLouisiana.org.

Contact Information: