We're not surprised but we're certainly still sad: according to a newly published survey by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), a third of all museums across the United States might permanently close before the end of this year.
Of the 760 directors of cultural destinations taken into account, 33% of them confirmed a "significant risk" of closing permanently before the fall. The main reason behind the possible shutterings is, of course, related to financials: 87% of those queried mentioned access to funds that will likely allow them to only stay in operation for another 12 months or less.
"Museum revenue disappeared overnight when the pandemic closed all cultural institutions, and sadly, many will never recover," said Laura Lott, President & CEO of AAM in an official press release. "Even with a partial reopening in the coming months, costs will outweigh revenue and there is no financial safety net for many museums. The distress museums are facing will not happen in isolation. The permanent closure of 12,000 museums will be devastating for communities, economies, education systems and our cultural history."
Although, according to Lott, on average, a quarter of an institution's funding comes from the government, a venue's bottom line heavily relies on gift shop and ticket sales, events and other in-person activities that have been halted indefinitely in response to the global pandemic.
The news follows the release of a letter by the AAM back in March in which the alliance asked the government for monetary aid to help keep museums afloat. According to the letter, "nationwide, our museums are losing at least $33 million a day due to closures as a result of COVID-19."
The closing of museums will eventually impact the everyday life of average Americans in more ways than one. Not only will we no longer have access to art and cultural pursuits, but folks employed by the various institutions will be left without a job. "Museums support 726,000 direct and indirect jobs and contribute $50 billion each year to the economy," the AAM said in a statement. "Of the museums able to reopen, over 40 percent plan to do so with reduced staff and will need to spend additional funds to ensure their ability to reopen safely."
As has been the case throughout various industries, museum staff members have found novel and creative ways to try and welcome visitors while still abiding by social distancing measures. From virtual art tours to staggered re-openings and mask-wearing requirements, destinations in Europe and other parts of the world have been able to greet at least some patrons. Here's to hoping that a similar future belongs to American art lovers as well.
Most popular on Time Out
- Here is each state's favorite snack according to Google
- Online trivia games to play remotely
- The iconic lake seen in 'Dirty Dancing' is full of water for the first time in 12 years
- Online party games to play remotely with friends
- The coziest Airbnb cabins in the U.S. to get off the grid