Permanent Galleries
The Cook Gallery
Our permanent exhibits are housed in the original 1918 Carnegie Library section of the museum building. Named after Gayle Cook, exhibits in the Cook Gallery explore Monroe County from the time of first European settlement to the culture of today, including industrial advancement, education, and lifestyles. Sit at a desk in the 1880’s one room school, explore pioneer life in an original 1840’s cabin or immerse yourself in Bloomington and Monroe County Sports and learn about athletes from Indiana University and area high schools. Come explore the fascinating history of Monroe County.
Henry & Cecilia Wahl Gateway
Come meet Monroe the Schmalz bear, sample local music, check out some limestone samples from around the area and get a sneak peak of the exhibits featured in the Cook Permanent Gallery.
Rotating Galleries
Breaking the News:
The Past and Uncertain Future of Local Print Journalism
Follow the 199-year history of our local newspaper industry from the beginning and learn about the papers, the people, and the technology that made it possible in this exhibit spanning three galleries. Explore the first paper printed in 1824 and the foundations of print journalism in our county; see the overarching timeline of newspapers in the area; and take a deep dive into the 20th-century golden age of the Herald-Times and other area daily papers and the changing news landscape that led to their uncertain futures.
July 18 to December 30
The Rechter Gallery is a rotating exhibit gallery sponsored by Richard P. Rechter. New exhibits are installed every 4-6 months.