Some museums and art galleries charge admission fees, while others have free entry. Do you think the advantages of free admission outweigh the disadvantages?
With the increasing popularity of museums and art galleries, whether or not they should be free of charge has drawn much discussion amongst the general public. Whilst many advocates claim that people should be charged to enter these places, their opponents may argue otherwise. Personally, I am inclined to the view that it is more beneficial to impose a reasonable amount of admission fees, and the reasons for which will be elucidated as follows.
One of the cogent reasons for charging fees is that the building and the maintaining costs of any major museums and art galleries are tremendous. Undoubtedly, by charging a reasonable entry fee, it can definitely help covering the cost incurred from day-to-day activities. Additionally, the gained profit also allows a museum or an art gallery to expand quicker and they can buy in more exhibits to attract more people. Another principal reason associated with this issue is that people will not adopt an idea of taking them for granted. It is highly unlikely for people to value those exhibits and be serious about a museum or a gallery tour if it is free admission. In other words, people are likely to pay more attention to the origin of a war cannon or the reason for a piece of ancient drawing.
On the other hand, in terms of the views against charging admission fees. Some may argue that those museums and galleries that are free of entry may attract more people to be interested in learning history and art.
In conclusion, I would like to reiterate that an entry fee is necessary for some museums and art galleries. Thus, it is recommended that they can provide concessions to special groups such as students, disabled people and so on. Only by doing so can we ensure that people are still willing to pay a visit albeit financially.
