Descriptive Entry

These records document the administrative and financial activities of the Exhibits Design and Production Laboratory during its planning, construction, and first years of operation. Records contain feasibility studies of the project, and correspondence and agreements about the acquisition of land for the facility. Also included are copies of construction contracts, as well as memoranda and correspondence with architects and contractors regarding the planning and progress of the building. The financial requirements of the project are represented by staff memoranda regarding possible sources of support, funding proposals, correspondence with donors, and requisition forms. A fire that damaged the Laboratory in July 1976 is documented by photographs, reports, and memoranda.

Administrative records of the Exhibits Training Program are also included. The records contain briefing sheets, periodic progress reports, and correspondence with Smithsonian administrators and financial sponsors. Also included are grant proposals, curricula outlines, correspondence concerning job placements for graduating students, and statements of expenses.

Historical Note

Audrey Archer joined the museum in 1968 as an Administrative Assistant and became the Administrative Officer in 1975. Although Archer's duties encompassed the entire museum, these records concern only the Exhibits Design and Production Laboratory, which was designed and constructed during her tenure, and which was occupied by the Exhibits Branch of the museum in 1974. For an administrative history of the Exhibits Branch and the Exhibits Training Program see Record Unit 378.