The Royal Society archive is a world heritage resource in the history of science. We will increase access to the living historiesT to be found in the rich collection of manuscripts, books, paintings and artefacts in our archive. Support will be sought for a complete programme of digitisation, conservation and preservation of our rare collection of scientific archival materials.
Cutting edge research from around the world will be presented by the scientists doing the work at a leading cultural venue in London forming a world's fair of scienceT. The Summer Science Exhibition has evolved from the annual SoireƩs, which date to the 1850s. For 2010, we plan for the Exhibition to grow beyond the walls of the Society for the very first time.
A dynamic exhibition on the power of knowledge and the role of science in creating the modern world will be brought to London and then tour the UK, North America and Asia. This will represent the first time that the Royal Society's archive is displayed in this way.
The Society will work closely with media organisations to stimulate television programmes, films, web-based and new media programmes on the global story of science.
Major corporate sponsorship opportunities will be available for the Summer Science Exhibitions and the global Royal Society exhibition for 2010. The 2010 exhibition will require £5 million. Donors may be interested in supporting digitisation and treatment of the Royal Society archive or history of science fellowships within the Society.