Smithsonian Institution Releases 2.8 Million Images into Public Domain
The Smithsonian Institution has introduced Smithsonian Open Access, making approximately 2.8 million digital images and nearly 200 years of information from its 19 museums, 9 research centers, libraries, archives, and the National Zoo available to the public. Established in Washington in 1846 by James Smithson, this initiative enables users worldwide to download, alter, and share content freely without the need for permission or payment. While over 4.7 million images were previously restricted to personal use, nearly 3 million now carry a Creative Commons Zero designation. The aim is to surpass 3 million digital assets by the close of 2020, although some copyrighted materials remain subject to restrictions.
Key facts
- Smithsonian Institution launched Smithsonian Open Access platform
- Approximately 2.8 million images and nearly two centuries of data released into public domain
- Content comes from 19 museums, 9 research centers, libraries, archives, and the National Zoo
- Creative Commons Zero designation allows free use for any purpose without attribution
- Previously 4.7 million images were available for personal/educational use only
- Goal to exceed 3 million digital assets by end of 2020
- John Davis, interim director of Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum, led the initiative
- Artist Amy Karle used a 3D scan of a Triceratops skeleton from the National Museum of Natural History
Entities
Artists
- Amy Karle
- James Smithson
Institutions
- Smithsonian Institution
- Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum
- National Museum of Natural History
- National Zoo
Locations
- Washington
- United States