
Masked employees at The Metropolitan Museum of Art on August 29, 2020 in New York City. Michael Loccisano/Getty Images
Despite the best efforts of certain institutions that have thrown resources into remote education, community stewardship and digital programming, American museums have been struggling hugely this year. In July, the American Alliance of Museums predicted that a third of all United States museums may close for good, leading to an additional loss of 242,000 jobs unless institutions get urgent federal support. This week, an updated report from the AAM revealed further disturbing statistics: according to its conducted survey, 67% of the museums that responded have had to cut back on education, programming, and other public services due to budget shortfalls associated with the pandemic.
At a time when museums are being called to provide those stuck at home with educational programming, they’re being forced to slash public services. This is a