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Academy of Natural Sciences staff speak out on closure
whyy.org • • nation
Key Points:
- The Academy of Natural Sciences announced the closure of its natural history museum, citing declining post-pandemic visitor numbers and rising operational costs, prompting shock and outrage among staff, scientists, and officials.
- Former staff argue the decline was also due to strategic missteps, including shifting focus away from family audiences and core exhibits toward attracting adults, exemplified by the opening of a $3 million art gallery in 2020.
- In the 1990s, the museum thrived with popular family programs, strong volunteer support, and steady funding, but recent years saw cuts to beloved exhibits and programs, leading to decreased family memberships and attendance.
- The decision to reduce museum hours to weekends only was seen by longtime employees as a symbolic "throwing in the towel," signaling the institution's gradual decline before the final closure announcement.
- Staff express deep sadness over the loss of a historic institution that served as a community hub for science education and family engagement for decades.
