A case can be made for charging and not charging. My experience is that people don't necessarily value things for which they do not pay. They also have no vested interest in showing up even if they've signed up.  Even a nominal cost creates some personal connection. Also, do you think offering only free programs has an impact on your own staff?

Good luck!

Bob

Robert B. Pickering, PhD
Senior Curator, Gilcrease Museum;
Applied Professor, Museum Science and Management
University of Tulsa
1400 N. Gilcrease Museum Rd
Tulsa, OK  74127
(918) 596-2706 Office
(918) 596-2770 Fax
(918) 805-4780 Cell
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-----Original Message-----
From: Museum discussion list [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Casandra Karl
Sent: Wednesday, December 15, 2010 9:34 AM
To: [log in to unmask]

Subject: [MUSEUM-L] Admission pros and cons

Hello all!

I recently had a discussion with the Director of a small local historical museum regarding the pros and cons of charging an admission fee to museum visitors (she casually asked for my opinion and it turned into a *huge* discussion).  She argued that charging admission would reduce visitorship and not really generate much income anyway (I actually agree with the second point somewhat).  I argued that charging a small amount (say $2) would increase the perceived value of the experience and give the museum a bargaining chip by offering "free admission" to members or for special days or events.

Does your museum charge admission?  What factors influenced the decision of whether or not to charge admission at your institution?  If you can cite evidence/resources to back-up your position, that would be helpful as well.

Thank you.

-Cass

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