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At 11,000 square feet of exhibit space, we are categorized by ASTC as a very small science center.  We opened in January of this year, prior to my hiring, and the original layout did not include a lunch room for school groups.  We are challenged when we get school groups of 80 plus that bring their lunch and have nowhere to eat.  Up to now, we have sent the groups to a nearby local park, but in inclement weather, we do our best to accomodate them on mats in our lobby area.  There are those here that do not see this as a pressing issue, as they consider who will clean the area and the cost involved in building out and maintaining such a space.

I would appreciate feedback from other science centers of a similar size as to how you handle this.  I believe those who do not feel it is essential to have a lunch room are not aware of the "behind the scenes" rooms at science centers.  Having come from another children's museum, I know that 90% of our groups expect such an accomodation.  Thank you for any feedback you can provide.

Janet Stone
Director of Operations
Lancaster Science Factory

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