Massachusetts Attractions: The Eric Museum of Picture Book Art

The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art was founded in part by Eric Carle, the renowned author and illustrator of more than 70 books, including the 1969 classic The Very Hungry Caterpillar. It is the first full-scale museum in the United States devoted to national and international picture book art. The museum was conceived and built with a goal of celebrating the art that we are first exposed to as children.

Exploring images that are familiar and beloved, the Museum strives to provide an enriching, dynamic, and supportive context for the development of literacy and to foster in visitors of all ages and backgrounds the confidence to appreciate and enjoy art of every kind. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art collects, presents and celebrates the art of the picture book from around the world and provides interactive experiences and programs that are engaging and educational.

The Museum has 40,000 square-feet and houses three Galleries dedicated to rotating exhibitions of picture book art from around the world; a hands-o
Art Studio for creating masterpieces of one’s own, an Auditorium for performances, films, and lectures, as well as a comfortable library for reading and storytelling.

The Eric Museum of Picture Book Art is physically located at 125 West Bay Road, in Amherst, Massachusetts 01002.

They feature guided programs and self-guided programs. The guided programs include a brief orientation followed by a gallery and studio experience designed to foster both visual and verbal literacy. The self-guided programs are met by a representative of the museum and given a brief orientation.

The Carle Café offers a range of sandwiches, salads, soups and fresh fruit for adults and children. Their unique treat is “Caterpillar Cookies.” You can also bring your own food into the café; however, oversized bags will still be checked in museum spaces. Food and drink can only be consumed in the Café.

The Museum was incorporated in January 2001 and received its non-profit status in September 2001. They have welcomed over 250,000 visitors since its opening on November 22, 2002.

Classes

The Eric Carle Museum is committed to providing the community with quality programming in the arts. They offer small classes taught by professional instructors designed to encourage students to make, appreciate, and think about art.

Professional Classes

Professional classes are designed for classroom teachers, librarians, art teachers, and others interested in engaging students in the visual arts and the art of the book. These classes emphasize teaching through the arts to encourage critical and creative thinking.

Museum Hours (Current as of summer of 2007)

10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Tuesday through Fridayn10:;00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Saturdayn12:00 to 5:00 p.m. Sundays

The Museum is closed on Mondays, Independence Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.

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