Native American Studies Center reopens by appointment only

April 19, 2021

After closing last March over safety concerns related to coronavirus cases, USC Lancaster’s Native American Studies Center will open on Tuesday, April 20 by appointment only now through August.

Advance reservations are required and visitor groups will be limited to six people per appointment size.  The Center will operate on a modified schedule this spring, open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, as well as the first Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Project Coordinator Elisabeth Streeter cleans a display case in “The Story of Catawba Pottery” exhibit.  While the Center has been closed to the public, faculty and staff have been making sure the galleries remain in top condition for visitors’ return.

Masks or face coverings are required for entry to the Center and guests are encouraged to make use of the hand sanitizing stations located at the building entrances.  Guests are also encouraged to stay home if feeling unwell and to maintain a distance of 6-feet between their party and others.

Visitors are asked to enter through the front entrance; the back entrance will remain available for use by students, faculty, and staff only. Temperature checks will be taken upon entry.  No public meetings spaces will be offered at this time.

“To ensure the wellbeing of our visitors, faculty, and staff, we’ve implemented new safety measures in preparation of welcoming our guests back to the Center,” said Center Archaeologist and Facilities Manager Christopher Judge.

No appointments will be available from 11 a.m. – noon in order to allow for a daily cleaning.

The Center continues to work on arranging both in-person and online exhibits, as well as planning upcoming signature events, such as the upcoming Artists-in-Residence series this summer, an Artist-in-Residence special event presented by Catawba artist Alex Osborn, and the annual Native American Studies Week this November.

Until further notice, all programs will continue to be held virtually.  Follow the Center on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn for the latest news or updates to programs and events.

To make an appointment for visitation, call the Native American Studies Center at (803) 313-7172 or send an email to [email protected].