Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation & Tourism facts for kids

Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation & Tourism
Incumbent Billy Nungesser since January 11, 2016
Appointer	Popular election
Term length	Four years
Inaugural holder	Trasimond Landry
Formation	1846
Succession	1st

The Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation & Tourism is a state agency. It works under the Lieutenant Governor's office. This department has six main parts. These are the Office of the Secretary, State Library, State Museum, State Parks, Cultural Development, and Tourism.

The Lieutenant Governor is the main official for tourism in Louisiana. This involves a big tourism industry worth billions of dollars. They also manage state parks, museums, and historic places. In 2019, Billy Nungesser was elected for a second term as Louisiana's Lieutenant Governor.

How the Department Works

The Lieutenant Governor is like Louisiana's ambassador. They lead the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism. This important job was created by state law. It helps make sure Louisiana's culture, fun places, and tourism are well-managed.

Office of the Secretary

This office makes sure all parts of the department run smoothly. It helps with money and management. It also oversees the Seafood Promotion & Marketing Board. This board helps promote Louisiana's delicious seafood. It has 14 members chosen by the Lieutenant Governor.

Office of the State Library

The State Library of Louisiana was started in 1920. It helps people in all 64 parishes (counties) of Louisiana. It provides books, resources, and learning opportunities for everyone.

Office of the State Museum

This office looks after nine state museums. A special board called the "State Museum Board of Directors" helps guide its work. They make sure Louisiana's history and art are preserved and shared.

Office of State Parks

Louisiana has 21 state parks. These parks offer places for outdoor fun and learning. An advisory group called the State Parks and Recreation Commission helps guide the parks. During certain times, like the COVID-19 pandemic, some park buildings were closed for safety.

Office of Cultural Development

The Office of Cultural Development (OCD) helps protect and celebrate Louisiana's unique culture. It has four main parts:

• Division of the Arts: This part supports artists and art groups. It helps bring art programs and services to people. It also includes the Louisiana Folklife Program, which celebrates local traditions.
• Division of Archaeology: This division finds and protects old sites. It helps us learn about Louisiana's past through things left behind by ancient people.
• Division of Historic Preservation: This part works to save old buildings and important historic places. It helps keep Louisiana's history alive for future generations.
• Council for the Development of French in Louisiana (CODOFIL): This group helps support and grow French-speaking communities in Louisiana. They offer scholarships and programs to help people learn and use French.

Office of Tourism

The main goal of this office is to bring visitors to Louisiana. It helps create jobs and grow the economy through tourism. It also provides chances for people to learn, enjoy nature, and have fun.

Recent Activities

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Lieutenant Governor ordered some places to close. This included welcome centers and museums across the state. This was done to help keep people safe. Events like Mardi Gras, which attract many tourists, also saw changes during this time.