Bishop Museum to Reduce Operations in Response to Economic Downturn

Bishop Museum announced today it will reduce the Museum’s public hours and reduce its personnel expenses in light of the continuing adverse economic conditions facing the State, the community and especially non-profits in Hawaii.  These cuts will include:

• Closing Bishop Museum to the public each Tuesday.
• Temporarily ceasing public operations at its Hawai‘i Maritime Center.
• A combination of personnel expense cuts that will include layoffs and furlough of staff in an effort to reduce the institution’s operating expenses.

These measures will take effect May 1st.

President & CEO Timothy Johns stated:  

“This decision was and remains very difficult.   With recent cuts in State funding, loss of income from investments, and a continued decline in non-resident visitors, the Museum must adjust to reduce its operating expenses. 

“Although the economic climate creates many uncertainties, we are committed to continuing to serve the community and provide world-class programs, research, and exhibits.”

Bishop Museum’s mission is to study, preserve, and tell the stories of the natural and cultural history of Hawai‘i and the Pacific.  It is the State Museum of Natural and Cultural History and holds 24 million cataloged objects. 

-pau-