The Museum is a center for research on Long Island geology and a valued resource in the study of the Island's  Native American archaeology. Reference collections of original archaeological artifacts and geological phenomena are maintained. These are used in exhibits and Museum educational programs and are available for special research purposes. A giftshop provides materials and publications related to the exhibits and educational programming, with emphasis on the natural history of Long Island.

Garvies Point Museum and Preserve is part of the Department of Parks, Recreation and Museums whose mission is to preserve and interpret the county's natural, prehistoric and historic heritage. The Friends for Long Island's Heritage is a non-profit educational corporation whose membership is open to all interested in promoting this objective.