Chicago’s Field Museum cutting staff, overhauling operations

CHICAGO—Chicago’s renowned Field Museum says it will cut staff, overhaul operations and limit the scope of its research because of a high debt load and the recession.

Museum officials say they also might change hours of operation and raise admission prices for special exhibits at one of the city’s best-known cultural attractions.

The Field Museum is known for its research and impressive collections, which include a replica of Sue, the world’s largest and best-preserved Tyrannosaurus rex.

Officials say the Field’s cost-cutting measures will be an opportunity to refocus the museum’s mission.

They say they hope to cut $5 million in costs and increase the museum’s endowment by $100 million. Museum staff and board members will work on a plan between now and July 1.

The museum was founded in 1893.