This is the sixth year in which the Smithsonian Institution has presented a Festival of American Folklife. In past years, I have commented that a museum should be an open experience, with people flowing in and out of the buildings, experiencing a sense of connection between their own lives, the history of their culture, and the activities of the Festival.

I would like to call your attention to an addition to this year's Festival that will heighten this experience. At numerous locations where skills and crafts are being demonstrated, you will notice small signs entitled "Museum Guides." These will direct the visitor to locations within the ...