INDIANAPOLIS –The Indianapolis Museum of Art says, for the first time in its history, membership has topped 15,000 households. The attraction says programs including members-only hours during popular exhibitions has helped grow the total.

Chief Executive Officer Charles Venable says growing membership is “vital” so the museum can better understand the type of experiences and exhibits that interest its audience. “As our membership grows,” he says, “we will be able to tailor and improve offerings as never before.”

The museum says members receive unlimited free admission to the galleries and gardens and cheaper and advance registration for special programming. Other benefits include discounts at the IMA Café, Museum Store and other shops.

In April, the museum began charging for general admission tickets. At the time, executives said the $18 charge would support new programs and help improve visitor experience.