Association of Research Libraries (ARL®)

The Smithsonian Institution has entered into a joint business venture with Showtime Networks Inc. creating "Smithsonian On Demand." This enterprise will provide programming though an on-demand cable channel. If a filmmaker produces a commercial documentary and wishes to utilize Smithsonian resources (collections and curators), the documentary would have to be first offered to Smithsonian On Demand.

To better understand the parameters of this agreement, ARL and ALA filed a Freedom of Information Request. A similar request was filed by the Center for American Progress. The lack of public hearings on this change in policy led 215 individuals to write to the Secretary of the Smithsonian asking that the Smithsonian Institution divulge the terms of the contract, annul the contract with Showtime Networks, and hold public hearings to gather public comment concerning placing limitations on access to Smithsonian collections and resources.

• ARL and ALA File FOIA Request for Smithsonian Institution and Showtime Networks Inc. License Agreement, April 11, 2006 [PDF]
  Smithsonian Responds to ARL/ALA FOIA Request, April 26, 2006 [PDF]

• Letter from Carl Malamud to Secretary Small Concerning Smithsonian/Showtime Joint Venture, on Center for American Progress Web site, April 17, 2006

• American Historical Association Letter to Secretary Small Concerning Joint Venture, April 14, 2006 [PDF]

• Chairman & Ranking Subcommittee Member Letter to Secretary Small, April 27, 2006 [PDF]