: >I would have to agree with Robert Guralnick the Web sites are not true
: >museums.  The internet has expanded the dissemination of information and
: >the processs of reaching a greater audience, but in no way or shape will
: >or should it replace the museum.  Web sites are important for
: >communicating aspects of a museum, like advertising the existence of
: >special collections or exhibitions, but they must and should not be seen
: >as replacing the museum.  Museums are experiential places.  WE go for the
: >unique the real the authentic artefacts.  This can not be replaced with
: >technological innovations.
: >
: >The museum collection is a valuable historic resource, the Web museum
: >pages can and should communicate this fundamental reality.
: >
: >Naomi Stiffelman

To some degree, I think Naomi has a point. Looking at a digital image is
not the same as confronting a real mummy or T-Rex skeleton. There is a
lot of value in experiencing such things first hand. Even when virtual
reality matures, there will still be a special thrill in seeing a real
sphinx that is really thousands of years old, to say nothing of its
obvious value as a real historic resource.

However, recent years have seen the appearance of a few software exhibits.
Software is representing a growing amount of human history. The evolution
of computer languages, opperating systems, user interfaces, artificial
intelligence, etc. can reflect much about society. Such collections
loose none of their reality when displayed across the Internet.

Also, in cases where artifacts are not the main focus, virtual exhibits
may be very appropriate. Gravity, friction, torque, oxidation, Penrose
tiles, ancient languages and the like may someday soon be well displayed
in virtual exhibits.

Often, however, there is no substitute for a true artifact. Such real
artifacts require real museums. Virtual museums, my own included, should
always recognize this distinction.
                                        Serendipities,
                                        Arthur
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        The Lost Museum of Sciences
        http://www.netaxs.com/people/aca3/ATRIUM.HTM