Bishop Museum announced yesterday it is laying off 19 staff members and reducing the work week of the remaining staff members to deal with the economic downturn.

The museum had announced layoffs and furloughs on April 10, but didn't give details at the time. The laid-off employees' last day is Friday. The remaining employees will shift to a 36-hour work week.

The layoffs represent an 8 percent reduction in staff and includes management and non-management positions.

In addition to the layoffs, the museum, currently open daily, will close on Tuesdays starting May 5. The Hawaii Maritime Center will temporarily shut on Friday.

Museum officials expect the changes will save $1.8 million.

Museum President and Chief Executive Officer Timothy Johns said the museum is providing severance packages, counseling and job placement services to employees.

He said the institution is committed to projects such as the renovation of Hawaiian Hall, opening in August, and providing world-class programs, research and exhibits.