Visitors will soon discover more Lake County history at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville as the Museum refreshes its permanent galleries with new objects, bilingual exhibits and expanded displays highlighting Latino heritage and culture.

The six-week renovation begins September 20 and continues through October 31. About half of the permanent galleries will be closed during the work, and individual admission will be reduced by 50%.

Made possible through a $24,750 grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), the project will feature new items from the Museum’s collections, loaned artifacts and updated interpretation. It will also expand opportunities for educators and build on the Museum’s partnership with the College of Lake County.

“We’re excited for visitors to discover objects and stories that offer a broader look at the people and cultures that have shaped Lake County,” said Education Director Alyssa Firkus. “The refreshed galleries will give longtime visitors something new to explore while creating a welcoming experience for those visiting for the first time.”

The refreshed galleries will reopen November 1. A new special exhibition, Abuelita's Kitchen: Mexican Food Stories, will open December 5.

What to Expect During the Renovation

• Gallery Access: About half of the Museum’s permanent galleries will be closed during the six-week renovation. The remaining permanent galleries and Museum Gift Shop will stay open.
• Open Exhibition: Visitors can explore Carving Out the Future: The Rotblatt Amrany Studio Story, a special exhibition tracing the creative process behind world-renowned bronze statues produced in the town of Fort Sheridan.
• Exhibition Closing: September 20 is the final day to view Pursuit of Happiness: Many Journeys, One Community, featuring photographs and artifacts highlighting Lake County residents and their contributions to their communities.

Discounted Admission: September 20–October 31

• Adults, ages 18 and older: $3 for Lake County residents and $5 for nonresidents.
• Youth, ages 4–17: $1.50 for Lake County residents and $3 for nonresidents.
• Seniors, ages 62 and older: From September 20-30, $1.50 for Lake County residents and $3 for nonresidents. Senior admission is free for the entire month of October.
• Free admission: Children ages 3 and younger, teachers and college students with valid school identification.
• Free Thursday evenings: Admission remains free for everyone from 5–8 pm. Thursdays, sponsored by USG.

Museum Hours and Location

The Dunn Museum is located at 1899 W. Winchester Road in Libertyville.

• Monday: Closed
• Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday–Sunday: 10 am–4:30 pm
• Thursday: 2–8 pm

The renovation project was made possible in part by the IMLS, the primary source of federal support for the nation’s libraries and museums. The agency advances, supports and empowers America’s museums, libraries and related organizations through grantmaking, research and policy development.

IMLS envisions a nation where individuals and communities have access to museums and libraries to learn from and be inspired by the trusted information, ideas and stories they contain about our diverse natural and cultural heritage. 

Media Contact: Kim Mikus, [email protected], 847-968-3202

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