before — by extending electronic outreach, for instance. Some Regents created theSmithsonian Center forLatinoInitiatives 



Smithsonian exhibitions have companion sites on the World under the Office of the Provost. When it opens in 1998, 



Wide Web, and there are virtual exhibitions as well. Some say the new center will promote interna links, as well as 



this experience in cyberspace is a far cry from standing next to connections between the Smithsonian and Latino 



the original, and they are absolutely right. On the other hand, communities. 



not all of our 260 million citizens can come to Washington to These reports from the Smithsonian's 16 museums, its 



expetience objects firsthand. Looking ahead, we see the research institutes, and its offices illustrate the convergence of 



prospect for dramatic changes in our educational potential as research and education. They share the thread of discovery, 



we digitize several million images from Smithsonian whether in a tropical forest canopy, at the far reaches of the 



collections fot online access. solar system, in a classroom, or in an exhibition gallery. For 



The Smithsonian also cook steps to more firmly engage scholars and the public alike, the Smithsonian is indeed a 



the public with the Institution when the Board of place for wondering, questioning, and learning. 



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