The Last of the Free Falls: National Building Museum Announces Plans to Charge Admission

nbm.org

The National Building Museum announced a change in its admission policy today.  Free since opening in 1985, Director of the “museum of the built environment,” Chase W. Rand explained its decision to charge an entry fee in a note to staff:


“Over the past few years, the recession has been particularly devastating for the culture and arts community, as well as the building and design industry… Around the world and in our backyards, the landscape for nonprofit organizations has shifted dramatically.  Those who wait too long to realize this truth or dismiss it entirely are likely to become casualties of the era. Under no circumstances will we allow this to be the fate of the National Building Museum.”


The last of the area’s major private, non-profit museums to begin charging admission, the National Building Museum will ask $8 for adults, $5 youth (3-17) beginning June 27th.  Entry will remain free from students with ID, seniors, museum members and tinytots.  Access to the Great Hall, Museum Shop and Cafe will also continue to be free.