Appointments to Research Objects

Only a fraction of the museum's vast collection is ever on display. An appointment is necessary to research objects that are in storage. Walk-in researchers cannot be accommodated.

Researchers

The collection is stored at the Museum and in multiple offsite facilities in the Washington area. Because of the scope of the collection and the number of projects to which staff time is obligated, appointments must be made at least one week in advance. We regret that we cannot accommodate walk-in researchers. Access to fragile or rare material may be restricted.

Object Research appointments are Monday-Friday (excluding Federal Holidays) 10am-5pm

Our policy requires that two (2) copies of all publications resulting from the research of our collections be given to the Museum.

To schedule an appointment

NPMObjectResearch@si.edu

On the day of the appointment, you will be required to:

  • Pass through magnetometer screening
  • Provide photo identification (driver's license or work ID)
  • Complete a registration form
  • Follow museum requirements for examining collection objects