We are grateful to the 1,200+ members and visitors who participated in our survey in May regarding the protocols most important to you when the Museum reopens. A few highlights include:

• 96% responded it was very important to clean high-touch surfaces during times open to the public
• 88% responded it was very important to provide hand sanitizer
• 82% responded it was very important to limit visitor capacity

You also shared over 1,400 comments, and the Museum’s leadership team has reviewed and reflected upon every single response. We were heartened to read about the exhibits most meaningful to your children, we understood some feeling uncertain about reengaging in public spaces, and heard loud and clear that you trust us to reopen in a responsible manner and encouraged us to open only when we are ready.

With the news of Philadelphia and the surrounding areas preparing to enter a modified green phase, many will wonder when Please Touch Museum plans to welcome back visitors. We are taking a cautious approach to our reopening and do not have an opening date to share at this time.

The team has consulted with experts and children’s museums across the country to learn and share best practices. We have examined every aspect of our Museum experience from the cleaning products we use to our admission process, and we have reviewed every exhibit and prop to determine how we can further increase sanitation protocols, and if we need to modify and/or temporarily close the exhibit.

Our operations will change to support the health and safety of our visitors and staff. When the Museum reopens, we will welcome visitors Thursdays through Sundays in two timed sessions to allow us to sanitize in between visitor groups and conduct immersive cleanings on the days we are closed. All visitors — including Members — will be required to make an online reservation in advance so we can limit crowd size. We will share more information in the coming weeks so you are fully informed on what to expect prior to your first visit and while you are in the Museum. Together, we will rediscover the power of learning through play.

Rest assured, we are continuing to freeze all current memberships with no time lost while the Museum is closed. We will reactivate memberships upon our reopening. There is nothing members need to do; we will handle this service for you. Should you have questions in the meantime, please email us at info@pleasetouchmuseum.org.

We look forward to sharing reopening dates once we are ready to welcome Members and visitors back to Please Touch Museum.

Looking forward to playing together again,

Patricia D. Wellenbach
President & CEO
Please Touch Museum