The Collection
The Smithsonian has launched its Open Access Initiative. Images of objects from the NMAAHC collection are now available to view, download, and share through a CC0 license.
Shared Stewardship and Ethical Returns
Have questions about our Shared Stewardship and Ethical Returns Policy?
Sharing Your History with the Nation
The National Museum of African American History and Culture houses a collection of over 45,000 objects and continues to grow thanks to the generosity of donors.
More than half of our collection objects have been contributed by members of the public. Due to the large number of objects already under our care, we apply careful and selective criteria when evaluating new potential acquisitions. As a result, we are only able to accept a small percentage of the donations offered to us.
Our decision to accept an offer is guided by several factors, including our current collecting and programming priorities, available storage, and long-term costs associated with preservation and care. Our museum accepts a wide range of materials and collections for consideration, including but not limited to historical artifacts, archival documents, and works of art.
If you have an important object or collection you believe the museum should consider, start by submitting our Collection Information Form.