Recognizing and honoring the Please Touch Museum on its 40th Anniversary of being an iconic champion of childhood learning and an extraordinary place for children to explore and learn.

WHEREAS, The Please Touch Museum was founded in 1976 by Montessori educator Portia Sperr. The museum started as a 2,200 square foot pilot project in the Academy of Natural Sciences; and

WHEREAS, By 1978, The Please Touch Museum had grown in popularity and expanded to a much larger space at 1910 Cherry Street. As the museum’s popularity continued to rapidly grow, the founders purchased and renovated a three-story, 30,000 square foot building on N. 21st Street in the heart of the City’s museum district, where it remained for a quarter century; and

WHEREAS, While located on N. 21st Street, attendance grew at The Please Touch Museum by 70%. The museum was accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and also launched the first publishing award that honored books for young children; and

WHEREAS, In 2008, The Please Touch Museum moved to its current and final home in the 4th Council District of Philadelphia, taking over the historic Memorial Hall building in West Fairmount Park. At this location, the museum’s exhibits have included a 40-foot replica of the Statue of Liberty’s arm and torch, as well as a restored carousel that dates back to 1908; and

WHEREAS, The Please Touch Museum was the first museum in the nation to focus on families with children under the age of seven. The Please Touch Museum remains a kid-focused museum that encourages curiosity and enriches the lives of children by creating learning opportunities through play; and

WHEREAS, Through its various exhibits and projects, The Please Touch Museum excels by exploring and promoting the varied interests and ability of young children. The Please Touch Museum has partnered with other organizations and experts devoted to early childhood development; and

WHEREAS, For the past forty years, The Please Touch Museum has cherished children and families, and has vigorously served the children of the Philadelphia community

;

now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Council of the City of Philadelphia, Hereby recognizes and honors the Please Touch Museum on its 40th Anniversary of being an iconic champion of childhood learning and magical place for children to explore and learn.

FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to The Please Touch Museum, further evidencing the sincere admiration and gratitude of this legislative body.

End