Various issues related to the role of scientific research at American museums were addressed during these hearings. The hearings include the testimony and prepared statement of Robert McCormick Adams (Secretary, Smithsonian Institution) and questions and answers for the record. These questions focus on such areas as the extent to which museums have dual responsibilities for research and public education, how non-university institutions handle the financial burdens of housing and maintaining newly acquired collections, and how achievements of natural history museums contribute to the public good. Also included is a panel discussion and prepared statements by the panelists representing the Associated Natural Science Institutions: Thomas Peter Bennett; Thomas D. Nicholson; George M. Davis; John E. McCosker; and John W. Fitzpatrick. Appended materials included a science policy report of the American Museum of Natural History and descriptions of the Associated Natural Science Institutions (The Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia, Field Museum of Natural History, The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, American Museum of Natural History, and The California Academy of Sciences). (JN)