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we are living through strange and violent times. It may well be that our most valuable contribution to the future will be in conserving and protecting the artifacts of our culture, keeping them safe from vandals of all persuasions. In any case, it is our obligation to conserve the collections for future generations.

I would like to see the Museum engage in an educational program which would reach children and adults from Washington, D. C., to every corner of our nation. I would welcome an active publications program, which would include monographs, guides, picture books, catalogues, reproductions, post cards; in short, every available modern technique that will help us reach a wide public. Naturally, we should also encourage research and scholarship to the greatest degree possible, and make all our facilities available for this purpose. In turn, scholars should be presented to the public by way of lectures and forums. I would like to see related activities such as concerts and screen filmings also become part of the Museum's public service program.

To detail these activities and make them workable will be the responsibility of the Smithsonian and the Museum's director and staff. And here I address myself to you Miss Houghton and gentlemen of the Board of Trustees. Without your active interest and support, the job will not be properly done. The Smithsonian and the Museum need your knowledge, your experience, and your involvement. In my opinion your help is absolutely essential in every respect, and we can only benefit