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Smithsonian Collections
- 137 million artifacts, works of art and specimens in the Smithsonian's collections
- 127 million of these specimens and artifacts are held by the National Museum of Natural History
- 8.1 million digital records available online through the Collections Search Center
- 2 million library volumes held by Smithsonian Institution Libraries
- over 136,194 cubic feet of archival material held by Archives across the Smithsonian
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Why Are Collections Important?
The Smithsonian’s collections represent our nation’s rich heritage, art from across the globe, and the immense diversity of the natural and cultural world.
The scope of objects in Smithsonian collections is staggering—from ancient Chinese bronzes to the Star-Spangled Banner; from a 3.5 billion-year-old fossil to the Apollo lunar landing module; from the ruby slippers featured in The Wizard of Oz to presidential memorabilia.
Scholars and scientific researchers from the Smithsonian, and from institutions and organizations across the globe, use these vast collections for their research. The Smithsonian’s scientific collections form part of the infrastructure that supports scientific research and natural resource management both nationally and internationally.
More information »
Collections Search Center »
Search over 8.1 million catalog records with 860,477 images, video and sound files, electronic journals, and other resources from the Smithsonian.
Smithsonian Libraries »
This collection of online tools allows you to search or browse the Libraries' holdings, from printed books, ephemera and manuscripts to digital publication and collections.
Smithsonian Archives »
The Smithsonian's vast archival research collections cover nearly every facet of our nation's history.
Smithsonian Folkways »
The nonprofit record label of the Smithsonian dedicated to the documentation, preservation, and dissemination of sound.
Collections Stewardship
The Smithsonian is a leader in the field of protecting and preserving our national heritage.
Researchers at the Smithsonian’s Museum Conservation Institute (MCI) work to better understand how materials and composite objects deteriorate in order to develop and improve conservation techniques and technologies critical for conserving museum collections.
More about the Museum Conservation Institute »
Conserving your Items »
Internship, Fellowship and Volunteer Opportunities »
Visitors to the Smithsonian have the unique opportunity to watch conservators at work in the Lunder Conservation Center at the National Portrait Gallery and Smithsonian American Art Museum.
