In response to a congressional mandate, two national museum organizations undertook a study to research and report on the nation's ability to care for its collections. The intent was to provide statistical information to the federal agencies that support collections care. The American Association of Museums coordinated the effort under contract to the Institute of Museum Services, and worked with the National Institute for Conservation as a subcontractor. The American Institute for Conservation also cooperated in the project. Surveys and site visits were organized to investigate collections care policies and practices in museums, zoos, botanical gardens, and arboreta. Museum professionals who need information on collections care are encouraged to consult the complete report; copies are available from the Institute of Museum Services, 1100 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Room 5510, Washington, DC. Twenty-eight percent of museums report that requests for their services have increased during the last five years. Conservation of collections was reported as the number one priority regarding collections care for the next decade. Directors of conservation laboratories ranked need for additional staff as the number one priority. A list of the assisting professionals is appended. -- AATA