Time for a Reboot: Some Unexpected Benefits from the Covid-19 Pandemic Closure at the New York State Museum

Summary

This is an abstract from the session entitled "Collections Management in the Age of COVID-19" , at the 2021 annual meeting of the Society for Historical Archaeology.

New York City, Westchester County, and other downstate areas were devastated by the coronavirus pandemic during March and April of 2020. The New York State government took necessary, responsible, and decisive measures to control the spread of the virus, flatten the curve, and save lives. Businesses and state agencies closed to limit personal contact and strict social distancing protocols were developed. The New York State Museum (NYSM) will remain closed until the risk of reopening to the public can be fully assessed and minimized. The staff of the NYSM adjusted to a new normal including telecommuting, safety procedures, and rotating schedules. Yet, these necessary changes led the archaeology department to re-evaluate procedures, complete outstanding projects, pursue avenues of professional growth, and develop new ways to reach the public virtually. Amidst the fear and uncertainty of the pandemic, the NYSM is finding ways to better serve the citizens of New York.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Collections Management in the Age of COVID-19   •
• Society for Historical Archaeology 2021

Keywords

Individual & Institutional Roles

Contact(s): Society for Historical Archaeology