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Smithsonian Collections
- 138 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
- 9.3 million digital records available online through the Collections Search Center
- 2 million library volumes held by Smithsonian Institution Libraries
- 156,830 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 at the Smithsonian, and around the world, use these vast collections in their research to expand human knowledge.
Collections Search Center »
Search over 9.3 million catalog records with more than 1.4 million images, video and sound files, electronic journals, and other resources.
Smithsonian Libraries »
Browse the Libraries' holdings, from printed books, ephemera, and manuscripts to digital publications and collections.
Smithsonian Archives »
The Smithsonian's vast archival research collections cover nearly every facet of our nation's history.
Smithsonian Online Virtual Archives (SOVA) »
Digitization Program Office »
A showcase for digitization projects at the Smithsonian.
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.
Conserving your Items »
More about the Museum Conservation Institute »
Conservation in Action
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.
Learn about visiting the Lunder Conservation Center »
