The museum’s collection includes more than 800,000 objects and photographs and more than 500,000 digitized images, films, and other media documenting Native communities, events, and organizations. Find more information on the museum’s object collections and archival collections on this site.

By making collections information available online, the NMAI commits to transparency and accessibility of collections under its stewardship. The museum values working in partnership, collaboration, and consultation with individuals and descendent communities and other stakeholders regarding collection matters. As such, the museum complies with restrictions requested by authorized Native/Indigenous community or tribal representatives regarding the public presentation of images and information. For both documented and suspected cultural sensitivities, the NMAI withholds collection images, culturally protected information, and historic photos of culturally sensitive subjects, and instead publishes only textual information.

The museum takes great care to ensure that only materials appropriate for public audiences are included in its online offerings. If you believe the NMAI has published an image or information that should be restricted, please send details to nmaicollections@si.edu.