Philadelphia's Academy of Natural Sciences Museum to Permanently Close Public Operations
Philadelphia's Academy of Natural Sciences Museum, a prominent institution for natural science research and public education for 200 years, is set to permanently close its public museum operations on September 30th. Drexel University, formally affiliated with the Academy, announced the closure via email, citing fundamental changes in the museum's operational model and rising costs since the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the closure of public exhibits, including a complete Tyrannosaurus Rex fossil, the institution will continue its research activities and focus on maintaining its extensive collections. The decision, signed by Drexel President Antonio Merlo and Academy Chairwoman Suzanne Biemiller, aims to ensure a sustainable future for the Academy by concentrating resources on its scientific assets and research. The museum had experienced dwindling attendance since the pandemic, which leaders determined to be a permanent shift rather than temporary pressure. Out of 80 museum employees, 27 will be impacted by ...
