RENO, Nev. – Today The Discovery announced that it has joined Museums for All, a signature access program of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), administered by the Association of Children’s Museums (ACM). Through participation in Museums for All, The Discovery aims to ensure every child and family in the community can experience hands-on science learning, exploration and creativity regardless of financial circumstance.
The program encourages people of all backgrounds to visit museums regularly and build lifelong museum-going habits. Wholly funded through the generosity of the museum’s donors, the program supports those receiving food assistance (SNAP) benefits with visits to The Discovery for a minimal fee of $5 per person, up to six people, with the presentation of a SNAP Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT), WIC or TANF card at the admissions desk anytime the museum is open. Additionally, day-use museum admission can be checked out at a local Washoe County Library through their Discover and Go program.
To further remove barriers for students, the museum has expanded access to school field trips. Nevada schools with 50% or higher Free and Reduced Lunch (FRL) participation now pay $0 per student. Schools with 0–49% FRL participation pay $6 per student. Transportation to and from the museum is included for all schools within the Washoe County School District and affiliated charter schools.
Families may also apply for reduced-cost camps and other programs. Applicants simply need to show proof of hardship by uploading documentation from SNAP, WIC, TANF or other qualifying state and federal assistance programs.
Museums for All helps expand access to museums and also helps raise public awareness about how museums in the U.S. are reaching their entire communities. More than 1,350 institutions participate in the initiative, including art museums, children’s museums, science centers, botanical gardens, zoos, history museums, and more. Participating museums are located nationwide, representing all 50 states.
Visit nvdm.org for more information.
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About The Discovery
The Discovery inspires by being the place to experience science. Through unique, hands-on exhibitions, programs and events, The Discovery creates learning experiences that range from simple curiosity to deep understanding, empowering a community of critical thinkers. The Discovery is a locally founded nonprofit 501(c)3 organization. To learn more about The Discovery and how you can help support the museum’s mission, visit www.nvdm.org.
About the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS)
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s 123,000 libraries and 35,000 museums. Our mission is to inspire libraries and museums to advance innovation, lifelong learning, and cultural and civic engagement. Our grant making, policy development, and research help libraries and museums deliver valuable services that make it possible for communities and individuals to thrive. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
About Association of Children’s Museums (ACM)
Started in 1962, the Association of Children’s Museums (ACM) champions children’s museums worldwide. With more than 470 members in 50 states and 11 countries, ACM is the world’s foremost professional society supporting and advocating on behalf of children’s museums, and those who work at and otherwise sustain them. We leverage the collective knowledge of children’s museums through convening, sharing, and dissemination. Learn more at www.childrensmuseums.org.
