The Academy of Natural Sciences is set to close its museum after nearly 200 years of operation. Drexel University, which oversees the museum located at Logan Square, announced this difficult decision via email, stating the museum will remain open until September 30.
The decline in visitor admission, which has worsened since the COVID-19 pandemic, has made it increasingly challenging to maintain the collections and support the research mission. Drexel President Antonio Merlo and Academy chair Suzanne Biemiller emphasized that this decision is crucial for the long-term stewardship of the museum’s extensive collection of over 19 million specimens.
Scott Cooper, the Academy’s president and CEO, will also resign from his position. The Academy intends to find new ways to engage the public in Philadelphia while remaining committed to accessibility for research. This story is still developing, and more details will follow.
