Is there an admission fee for the Museums?
Never! The Museums galleries and events are free and open to the public.
How can I schedule a class session?
Please visit: Class Engagement and Tours or contact the Museums.
Can I schedule a group visit or tour?
Yes! Please see the visit the Class Engagement and Tours page.
For general questions about tours or to learn about scheduling please contact the Museums.
If you’re specifically interested in a session, tour, or visit in the Mineralogical Museum, please contact the Mineralogical Museum Curator at 302-831-6557.
How can I see a collection object (art, artifact, or mineral) that’s not on view?
A good place to start is by reviewing the Museums online collection database.
With 2 weeks notice, we are are happy to show visitors collection objects out of storage in personalized viewing sessions. Please contact Museums with information about the object you would like to review. We will work with you to arrange an appointment.
May I sketch or take notes in the galleries?
Yes, but only with pencil.
What is your policy about bags and backpacks?
Bags and purses should be carried on one arm or shoulder, not on the back. For bags larger than 11 x 14 inches please leave them with the gallery attendant, or when in Mechanical Hall Gallery, you may place them in the small coat closet.
Is photography permitted in the galleries?
Yes. Unless otherwise posted, photography with personal devices and without flash is permitted in the galleries. Tripods are only allowed with advance written permission and with supervision by Museums staff. We ask that your photographs include views of the space of the galleries, not close-up images of individual works of art. If you would like to conduct a professional photo shoot, please contact Museums.
May I make videos in the galleries?
Yes. Unless otherwise posted, videos with personal devices are permitted in the galleries. Tripods are only allowed with advance written permission and with the supervision of Museums staff. We ask that your videos include views of the space of the galleries, not close-up views of individual works of art. If you would like to conduct a professional video session please contact Museums.
Are food and beverages allowed in the galleries?
No.
Where can I get a work of art appraised or authenticated?
Museums staff are not permitted to appraise or authenticate works of art, nor recommend individual appraisers/authenticators. To locate an appraiser/authenticator that matches your needs visit the websites of the following professional associations:
American Society of Appraisers
Appraisers Association of America
Art Dealers Association of America
International Society of Appraisers
For appraisals of charitable donations of works of art or minerals, check with your tax preparer or accountant for the proper procedure and documentation required by the IRS.
Are your galleries wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Our galleries are in three different buildings, each with different accessibility and wayfinding circumstances.
–Mineralogical Museum in Penny Hall – Please use the door at the ramp in the back of the building. The route inside the building to the Museum gallery is somewhat complicated and a visitor may wish to connect the Curator at 302-831-6557 or gallery attendant at 302-831-4940 for assistance.
–Mechanical Hall Gallery – Please use the main gallery entrance through the glass vestibule. The exterior glass doors are not automated please alert the gallery attendant at 302-831-8088 for assistance.
–Old College Gallery – Please enter through the ground floor door with the service button on the southeast side of the building (to the right of the large, exterior staircase facing Main Street). Once inside, turn to your left to find the elevator in the center of the building. The elevator can be taken to the second floor and will open next to the gallery door.
For more information on wayfinding please visit the Locations and Hours page.
Are service animals permitted in the galleries?
Visitors may bring trained service animals into the galleries. Service animals must be on a leash. Emotional support animals are not allowed in the galleries.
How can I request an image of a collection object (art, artifact, or mineral)?
Please email details of your request to Museums.
Are your galleries available for private event rentals?
No.