With the approach of the 21st century, Canada's national museums have embarked on a new era. The construction of buildings to showcase three of the national collections; the reevaluation of the federal role in the national museum community; and the challenge of modern technology and of increased audience expectations has resulted in new approaches to traditional museum functions. This volume presents the views of the MInister, Directors and staff actively involved in planning and developing new programs, along with commentary and analysis offered by scholars in the museum community. It records the intellectual processes, debates and visions of the people who set new directions for Canada's national museums.