National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
Our Mission - NCSML preserves, presents, and transcends unique stories of Czech and Slovak history and culture through innovative experiences and active engagement to reach cross-cultural audiences locally, nationally, and
| Address 1400 Inspiration Place SW , Cedar Rapids, 52404, IA, United States |
| Contacts 319-362-8500 |
Basic Info
| Established 1974 |
| Location 1400 Inspiration Place SW, Cedar Rapids, Iowa |
History until the 2008 flood
In 1974, several second and third-generation Czech Americans in the Cedar Rapids area founded the Czech Fine Arts Foundation to preserve their Czech heritage and culture. In 1978, the group's growing collection of artifacts and documents caused them to open a Czech Museum in a three-room house, where
2008 flood and rebuilding
During the Iowa flood of 2008, the Cedar River overflowed its banks, flooding the museum and library with 8 feet (2.4 m) of water and causing severe damage to the exhibitions and contents. The damage was variously valued at $8 million or $9 million. The flood occurred just days before the museum was
Calendar of Events
We strive to provide informative, engaging, and most importantly - FUN events to the Cedar Rapids area. Our events focus mainly on the history of the Czech and Slovak people, with hands on workshops, informative history lessons, and exhibit opening receptions.
Membership
Members of the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library receive admission to our exhibits, subscriptions to our biannual journal (Slovo) and our bi-annual newsletter (MOST), enrollment in our Time Travelers Program (including benefits at 100+ museums), and access to members-only events.
