Today the Loudoun Museum Board of Trustees is announcing that it is implementing a series of cost-cutting measures due to decreased funding. Starting November 1, the museum will only be open Fridays and Saturdays 10AM to 5PM, and Sundays 1 to 5PM. The Museum will eliminate one full-time position, retaining only the position of Curator. These measures come as the Museum struggled to continue its programs after cutting two full-time positions and a part-time position a year ago when funding sources began reducing their grants.

The Museum will conduct the last of its popular First Friday Lecture Series on November 5, 2010 at 7pm at the Museum. Thereafter all outreach programs - Scout and school programs, lectures, walking tours, research availability, and loans to other institutions - will be suspended. These painful steps are being taken in order to protect the world class collection of over 8000 objects that are entrusted to our care.

Loudoun County and the Town of Leesburg have been generous supporters of the Museum since its beginning in 1967, enabling the Museum to serve as Loudoun County's only general history museum and an important tourist destination in historic downtown Leesburg. However, continuing the status quo is no longer possible.

While support from the community remains strong, with memberships remaining steady, it is vital that we secure permanent sources of funding to protect our priceless collection, keep our doors open, and restore our educational programs.

For further information, contact Liz Whiting at lizwhiting745516@cs.com.