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- Quick Facts about the NCSML
- Founded in 1974, the NCSML is the nation’s foremost institution interpreting Czech and Slovak history and culture.
- The museum/library attracts 20,000 – 30,000 visitors and program participants each year, from all 50 states and many other countries.
- On Oct. 21, 1995, Presidents Bill Clinton of the United States, Václav Havel of the Czech Republic and Michal Kovác of the Slovak Republic presided over the current building's dedication, underscoring the international significance of the event and the NCSML.
- The museum’s national advisory board includes Milos Forman (Academy Award winning director of One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest and Amadeus) and Capt. Eugene Cernan, the last astronaut to leave footprints on the moon.
- The NCSML has a national membership of approximately 2000 individuals and corporations from 44 states and the Czech Republic.
- A biannual journal, Slovo, is published for members addressing Czech and Slovak history and culture.
- Museum collections and library holdings total more than 30,000 items. The museum and library are still actively accepting donations of artifacts, costumes, art objects, books, periodicals and other items related to Czech and Slovak culture and history.
- The NCSML has a formal Agreement of Cooperation with the Czech National Museum, Prague for exchange of artifacts, exhibits and expertise.
- The permanent exhibit, Homelands: The Story of the Czech & Slovak People tells the story of the Czech and Slovak people from the days of Slavic tribes entering Central Europe through the Velvet Divorce, which separated Czechoslovakia into two distinct countries in 1993. Homelands includes fine and folk art, a stunning folk costume section, maps, military information, glassware, ceramics, a 19th century printing press, and a fully restored 19th century immigrant home.
- The 2,000 sq. ft. Robert J. Petrik Gallery features two to three temporary exhibits each year. The north and south hall exhibit spaces display a variety of 2-dimensional exhibits throughout the year.
- The NCSML provides an annual schedule of more than 100 lectures, workshops, films, discussions, fine arts performances, children’s programs, fests, and events.
- Governance: Board of Directors, headed by President/CEO, Gail Naughton. 501(c)3 non-profit corporation.
- Hours: May 1 – Oct. 31: Monday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. Nov. 1 – April 30: Closed Mondays
- Admission: Free to members. For nonmembers, $7.00 for adults, $6.00 for seniors (65 and over), $2.00 for children ages 5-16. Children under 5 admitted free. Children free with family group on Sundays.
- Location: In the Czech Village at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, 52404.