A brief history on the invention and implementation of microfilm and our acquisition of a new, modern microfilm reader/scanner that enables us to provide digital access to and enhance the quality of SIA’s microfilm collections.

Mary Grace Potter, founding director of the Visitor Information and Associates’ Reception Center, 1971–2000, established and led the unit responsible for providing information to Smithsonian members and the public by mail, telephone, and in person. In 1978, Potter won the first annual Robert A. Brooks Award for Excellence in Administration. #Groundbreaker

Material and process identification is the key to a robust preservation strategy!

Exhibit case featuring skeletons of “Man and Horse” in Comparative Anatomy Hall at the United States National Museum, now known as the Arts and Industries Building, mounted by J.W. Scollick, osteological preparator, 1890s.

Link Love: a weekly post with links to interesting videos and stories about archival issues, technology and culture, and Washington D.C. and American history.

To celebrate Father’s Day 2019, here are three photographs of famous fathers and sons in biology and physics.

Linda Edquist, Conservator and Head of Preservation, National Postal Museum, 1993–2018, managed conservation projects, staff, and exhibitions at the museum. Edquist first arrived at the Smithsonian as a Conservation Technician at Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, 1990–92. #Groundbreaker 

In the midst of Smithsonian's busy season, we’re providing tips for visitors through the lens of photographs from the opening of the Renwick Gallery in 1972. 

Selection of horns mounted for musical instruments exhibit in the United States National Museum, 1880s, SIA Acc. 11-006, MAH-8224.

Link Love: a weekly post with links to interesting videos and stories about archival issues, technology and culture, and Washington D.C. and American history.