Bishop Museum announced today it will reduce public hours and cut personnel expenses because of continuing adverse economic conditions.

The cuts go into effect May 1 and include:

— Closing Bishop Museum to the public each Tuesday.

— Temporarily ceasing public operations at its Hawaii Maritime Center.

— A combination of personnel expense cuts that will include layoffs and furlough of staff in an effort to reduce the institution's operating expenses.

"This decision was and remains very difficult," President and CEO Timothy Johns said in a statement.

"With recent cuts in state funding, loss of income from investments, and a continued decline in non-resident visitors, the Museum must adjust to reduce its operating expenses.

"Although the economic climate creates many uncertainties, we are committed to continuing to serve the community and provide world-class programs, research, and exhibits."

Bishop Museum is the State Museum of Natural and Cultural History and holds 24 million cataloged objects.