Every Collection has a Story. The Archives holds records that document the Smithsonian’s people, events, buildings, and research. The history of the Smithsonian is a vital part of the history of American experience, scientific exploration, and international cultural understanding.
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The Smithsonian Institution Archives Reading Room is open to the public by appointment Tuesday through Thursday between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Please contact OSIAREF@si.edu to schedule an appointment.
Appointment times are currently filling up 3-4 weeks in advance. For more information about Smithsonian Libraries and Archives locations, see Library Locations and Smithsonian Institution Archives Reference. To requests an appointment at another location, use Contact Us.
Appointment times are currently filling up 3-4 weeks in advance. For more information about Smithsonian Libraries and Archives locations, see Library Locations and Smithsonian Institution Archives Reference. To requests an appointment at another location, use Contact Us.
The Smithsonian Institution Archives reading room will be closed Tuesday, December 26 – Thursday, December 28.
Explore all 58,411 records that document the Smithsonian's people, events, buildings, exhibits, and research:
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Capturing, preserving, and sharing the history of the Smithsonian Institution
Explore the history of the Smithsonian Institution:
December 8, 1992
The Hands on History Room opens at the National Museum of American History. The 3,000 square-foot room features more than forty hands-on historical activities for Museum visitors to participate in.
