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The Academy of Natural Sciences museum is closing. What happens to memberships and planned events?

Drexel said visitors should come to the museum through Sept. 27 “and celebrate the museum during its final weeks."

Jennifer Sontchi, director of exhibits and public spaces at the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, looks over a Titanophoneus on Jan. 5, 2021.
Jennifer Sontchi, director of exhibits and public spaces at the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, looks over a Titanophoneus on Jan. 5, 2021.Read moreTOM GRALISH / Staff Photographer

Drexel University and the Academy of Natural Sciences announced Tuesday that the museum would close for good on Sept. 30. Its last day open to the public with regular hours will be Sunday, Sept. 27.

While the academy’s research and collections will be unaffected by this closure, here’s how things will change for the museum’s members and its events.

Will museum members get refunds?

Most recently, memberships for the academy museum cost $65 for individuals. $135 for families.

“Members will receive direct communication in the coming days with information about their memberships, including benefits, expiration dates, and transition options,” Drexel said in a statement.

The Franklin Institute, the university said, will honor academy memberships through their expiration dates, so members can visit the institute situated only about a block away from the academy.

Members could also “adjust the tax-deductible portion of their membership or request a prorated refund for the remaining membership period,” the university said.

The university said it will provide information to members and also post it on the academy’s website when it becomes available.

What will happen to events scheduled at the museum?

“All programs and events scheduled to take place before the closure will continue as planned,” the university said. The university did not respond to what will happen to events that are rescheduled after Sept. 30 or if there are any.

What happens to the interns and students currently working in co-ops at the museum?

“Five Drexel students are currently working at the Academy in co-op positions. Their roles support the Academy’s research and collections’ activities and are not affected by the closure of the museum,” the university statement said.

Will hours be expanded if the closure announcement drives a high turnout?

The university said visitors should come to the museum through Sept. 27 “and participate in programs and events offering opportunities to experience and celebrate the museum during its final weeks.”

The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, is open Friday to Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. ansp.org

    Susan Snyder
    I cover issues and trends affecting colleges. If it happens on campus, I'm interested.