SPRINGFIELD (ILLINOIS CAPITOL BUREAU) -- State and local public health departments are warning people to stay away from large gatherings to eliminate the spread of coronavirus. The Illinois Department of Public Health has confirmed 32 cases of COVID-19. But families may still want to visit some of the state's top tourist attractions. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum will close to the public starting Friday. Public events are canceled through April 10.
“Thousands of guests and researchers enter our facilities every week, so precautionary safety for the public remains our paramount concern,� said APLM Acting Director Melissa Coultas. “We recognize the impact our closure may have on patrons, including the seasonal influx of school groups scheduled to visit. We will continue to follow guidance and recommendations from the Illinois Department of Public Health in an effort to protect the health of the museum’s patrons.�
Meanwhile, the Lincoln Home National Historic Site is staying open for tourists. While the coronavirus cases have been central to Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, national park employees are making sure they have safety precautions ready. "We are running operations as usual following CDC guidance and our numbers are pretty much stable at the moment," said Park Ranger Jorge Hernandez. Visitors said they were happy to see people outside, as they know many people are staying isolated in their homes.
"Well, it means that we're not shutting down as a community or as a state," said visitor Art Moore. "And we're continuing to live our lives and going forward with what's around us. We're not putting everything on hold."
"Our best course of action"
Employees at Lincoln's Home expect a few field trips later this month. However, the Illinois State Museum has suspended all events and school group visits through April 10. The precautions cover programs at the Springfield museum and its branch facilities; Research and Collections Center, Dickson Mounds Museum, and Lockport Gallery.
“Museums are places for learning, and they are places where people come together, interact, and engage with staff, family, and friends,� stated Cinnamon Catlin-Legutko, Illinois State Museum Director. "Until we know the public’s health is ensured, taking these steps is our best course of action." Catlin-Legutko says the Illinois State Museum and its branch facilities will remain open to the public.
The Illinois State Capitol Complex is also open to the public and state employees. However, officials from the Secretary of State's Office say large tour groups and rallies are prohibited.
