PITTSBURGH, Pa. (June TK, 2026) – The Allegheny County Library Association (ACLA) and the Senator John Heinz History Center are once again partnering to offer free Experience Kits that provide access to some of the region’s most unique historical destinations.
The Experience Kit program allows library card holders to receive free admission for up to four at a variety of participating attractions throughout Western Pennsylvania and Eastern Ohio. Participating sites in 2026 include:
- Heinz History Center
- Fort Pitt Museum
- Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village
- Beaver Area Heritage Museum
- Bradford House and Whiskey Rebellion Education and Visitor Center
- Gibson House Manor
- Historic Fort Steuben
- Lincoln Highway Experience
- McKeesport Regional History & Heritage Center
Experience Kits may be checked out from participating libraries for up to one week, starting June 1. Residents interested in participating can visit their local library to check out an Experience Kit. Some libraries allow Experience Kits to be reserved in advance for a specific week, and some operate on a first-come, first-served basis. A full list of participating libraries is available at www.aclalibraries.org/experience-kits.
“The Experience Kits program is a wonderful way to explore our region’s history with your library card,” said Amy Anderson, Chief Executive Officer of the Allegheny County Library Association. “ACLA is grateful for our longstanding partnership with the Heinz History Center and all of the participating historic sites and museums. Community partners like these allow us to provide new and unexpected opportunities for our patrons and continue ACLA’s mission of lifelong learning for all ages.”
The Experience Kit program is offered in partnership with the Heinz History Center Affiliates Program (HCAP). HCAP includes more than 125 regional historical societies and organizations dedicated to preserving local history. Affiliate Program members include history, genealogy, and library organizations located primarily within the counties of Western Pennsylvania.
TK QUOTE FROM BOB STAKELY
As part of the Experience Kits program, ALCA libraries will be hosting a series of lectures featuring representatives of the historic sites. More information about the lecture series will be available at www.aclalibraries.org/experience-kits in July.
For each historic site patrons visit using an Experience Kit, they may enter to win a raffle prize. Raffle prizes are donated by participating libraries and historic sites. The raffle is open until October 31, 2026 and may be entered at www.surveymonkey.com/r/ExpKitRaffle2026.
# # #
About the Allegheny County Library Association
The Allegheny County Library Association (ACLA) is a federated library system that highlights the work of its membership, which includes 46 independent public libraries with more than 70 locations serving the residents of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania.
ACLA operates as a collaborative organization dedicated to ensuring equitable access to high-quality library services across the entire county. Our mission is centered on empowering these local libraries in a wide variety of ways, including providing access to shared resources, administrative support, funding opportunities, and professional development. By maintaining the independence of our community libraries, ACLA allows each community library to maintain its individual character and deep local connections while benefiting from the strength and efficiency of a unified network.
ACLA believes that libraries are vital hubs for civic life, and our work is focused on championing their relevance and sustainability for future generations. We also believe that collectively we can all do more than we can individually. By pooling our collective expertise and resources, the Allegheny County Library Association ensures that every resident, regardless of where they live, has the opportunity to learn, connect, and grow through the power of their local public library.
About Heinz History Center Affiliates Program
The History Center Affiliates Program (HCAP) includes more than 125 regional historical societies and organizations dedicated to preserving local history. Affiliate Program members include history, genealogy, and library organizations located primarily within the counties of Western Pennsylvania. Membership in the program brings the extensive expertise and resources of the History Center’s staff to these organizations, especially in the areas of museum and archival work that enable each affiliate organization to reach its goals.