I personally think that the challenge is to find a balance - a middle ground between all of these choices - however, if I had to choose one, it would be preservation. Without original sites, objects, and art, education and exhibitions would be a rather hollow experience. Just imagine how altered the experience of some of our National Parks would be for future generations if all of the natural resources and wildlife were stripped away... Cheers! Dave David Harvey Associate Conservator, Metals & Arms The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation P.O. Box 1776 Williamsburg, Virginia 23187-1776 USA Voice: 757-220-7039 E-Mail: [log in to unmask] -----Original Message----- From: Museum discussion list On Behalf Of K. Brecheisen Sent: Wednesday, April 08, 1998 11:57 AM To: [log in to unmask] Subject: goals of the museum I was wondering what everyone thought was the single most important goal of museums: to educate, to preserve objects, or to have great displays? This is something I've been wondering about in regards to allocation of funds, education versus potential object damage, and the like. Everyone, please respond! Thanks, Kathy