ISEN-ASTC-L is a service of the Association of Science-Technology Centers
Incorporated, a worldwide network of science museums and related institutions.
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Having rentals during normal business hours was not a decision that was
entered into lightly. However, we do have a fiscal responsibility to the
city and citizens that help support us. It was decided not turn down the
opportunity to increase revenue and chose to develop rentals as another
way to help decrease the science center's need for city funding. 

From the mission side, rentals are also a chance to reach out to people
who have never been in a science center before. Each rental is a
significant change in the demographics of the average visitor. Through
rentals we are able to reach people who normally wouldn't consider going
to a science center. 

From a PR point of view people who come to rentals are also citizens who
are on school-boards, own businesses, are on the city council, have
children, grandchildren and out-of-state-visitors. Each person at a
rental is another voice who can share how we benefit the community.

We would like to accommodate all our visitors, everyday, with every
exhibit. But, that isn't always possible. Turning away visitors two to
three times a year was a decision made to do the greatest good in terms
of mission and finances. It is our hope that the visitor would not be
disappointed to the point that they would never come back. However, with
the emanate closing of a science center in our area (The Science
Station-Cedar Rapids) we are very aware of our need make a positive
impact on the community while keeping our costs/expenses low.



Nancy Van Beek
KSDC Education Manager
Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science
301 S. Main Ave
Sioux Falls SD 57104
(605) 367-7397 ext 2374
www.washingtonpavilion.org
 
"It is difficult to say what is impossible, for the dream of yesterday
is the hope of today and the reality of tomorrow" Robert Goddard
 
 
 

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