Met president defends museum's recommended admission fee

The CEO and president of the Metropolitan Museum of Art defended the museum's admission policy, which is the subject of a lawsuit.

The plaintiffs, who visited the museum, contend the Upper East Side institution deceives patrons with its $25 adult admission fee by not emphasizing that it is a suggested donation.

Thomas P. Campbell, the CEO and president of the Met, posted a lengthy explanation for the policy on the museum's website Thursday, saying that state law doesn't mandate a free museum admission. He added that the Met needs the funds for its exhibits.

"The recommended admission policy is clearly posted at all entry points to the Museum's Main Building and The Cloisters, on all printed materials, and on our website. Should a visitor ask a cashier about the admission policy, the message is always equally clear: the amount is voluntary; please pay what you wish," Campbell said.

The museum has had its recommended admission system since 1970.