Created in 1996 as Traveling Trunks, our Museum in a Box program brings themed educational materials directly to students, focusing on Nevada’s human and natural history. Designed for educators, the program is free for all CCSD public schools thanks to generous support (from the Friends of NSMLV) and free delivery.
Boxes are free to borrow for two to four weeks. Program themes are actively maintained through educator input, ongoing research, and alignment with the Nevada Academic Content Standards.
Reservations for the 2026-2027 school year will open on Monday August 3rd. To be notified when booking begins, email educationnsmlv@nevadaculture.org.
Delivery begins Tuesday, August 11, 2026, and the final delivery date is Tuesday, April 27, 2027. Each teacher may reserve one box per school year through Nevada Day. When booking, select your preferred Tuesday delivery date to see available themes.
Returns are scheduled for the final Friday of your reservation. Boxes that are not returned on time, damaged, incomplete, or poorly packed will incur a $100 maintenance fee. If charged, the school will be invoiced and must pay the fee before booking another box. For questions, special requests, or cancellations, contact educationnsmlv@nevadaculture.org.
Each box features a study guide and clearly listed Nevada Academic Content Standards to support your lesson plans. Materials include a teacher handbook with background information, images, and lesson plans, along with simulated classroom activities and touchable artifacts. Depending on the theme, boxes may also contain photographs, videos, books, posters, games, and more.
Our Museum in a Box program is always in demand. If you’d like to support the program’s upkeep or fund box deliveries to CCSD schools, please call (702) 822-8746 or email educationnsmlv@nevadaculture.org.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I reserve a Museum in a Box?
Click the Book a Museum in a Box button above. Use the calendar to select the Tuesday you’d like your box delivered. Click that date to view available themes, select your preferred box, and complete the online reservation form.
Can I reserve more than one box?
Due to limited availability, teachers may reserve one box per school year through Nevada Day. After Nevada Day, additional reservations may be accepted. Email educationnsmlv@nevadaculture.org to inquire about availability.
Is there a cost to reserve a box?
No. Reservations and delivery are completely free thanks to support from the Friends of NSMLV and the 32 Club. However, each Museum in a Box includes an inventory sheet that illustrates the cost per item. If the Museum in a Box is returned with missing items or materials that are damaged or late, the school will be invoiced for the cost.
Can I review the Teacher Handbook before the box arrives?
Yes. Once your reservation is confirmed, you may request a digital copy of the Teacher Handbook to help you prepare in advance. To request it, email educationnsmlv@nevadaculture.org with your confirmed delivery date and theme.
How is the Museum in a Box delivered?
On the Tuesday of your selected delivery week, Run It Delivery will bring your box to your school’s front office. If the box does not arrive by the end of the school day, please contact educationnsmlv@nevadaculture.org.
How long can I keep the box?
Museum in a Box reservations are available for a period of two to four weeks, as selected during the online booking process. All reservations begin on a Tuesday and end on the corresponding Friday two or four weeks later.
How is the box returned?
Boxes will be picked up by Run It Delivery from your school’s front office on the Friday of your final reservation week. If Friday is a holiday, pickup will occur on Thursday instead. You’ll receive a reminder email before the scheduled pickup date.
How do I use the box?
Boxes are designed to enhance your instruction. You may follow the provided lesson plans or use the materials flexibly to fit your curriculum. Boxes support Nevada Academic Content Standards in social studies and science but can be adapted across subject areas. Each box’s Teacher Handbook includes a state standards list that supports Nevada Academic Content Standards.
What is included in a Museum in a Box?
Each box includes a Teacher Handbook with background and lesson plans. Depending on the theme, boxes may also contain photographs, books, antiques, fossils, classroom activities, and hands-on materials.
Do I need a minimum number of students?
Yes. Because transportation costs are generously covered, we ask that participating classes have at least 10 students. If your group is smaller or you have a special circumstance, please reach out in advance.
How do I share feedback about my experience?
You can email feedback to educationnsmlv@nevadaculture.org. For each reservation, you’ll also receive a short survey link by email. Complete the survey for a chance to win a special prize from the Nevada State Museum, Las Vegas.
Can I support the Museum in a Box program?
Yes. Museum in a Box is a highly requested resource, and donations help keep it free and accessible for educators. If you would like to contribute to box upkeep or sponsor delivery to CCSD schools, please contact us at (702) 822-8746 or educationnsmlv@nevadaculture.org for more information.
