Smithsonian Showtime?

The Providence Journal: The Smithsonian Institution should rethink its plan to launch a commercial-TV venture with Showtime Networks. It is bad enough that the collection of museums, which belongs to the public, has refused to disclose details of the agreement. But the deal also seems to throw a roadblock in the way of documentary filmmakers.
As now structured, the agreement creates a new entity, Smithsonian Networks, which will produce original television programming linked to the museums' vast holdings. These include art, historical materials and objects of scientific interest. Filmmakers who rely extensively on Smithsonian archives and experts will have to offer their work to Showtime first.
Along with being an abuse of public resources, this is outrageously anticompetitive. Showtime is a private, commercial entity. It should not be allowed to put a lock on the nation's cultural treasures.
Operating expenses
The Smithsonian argues that, frankly, it needs the money. Although it receives more than $600 million in annual federal support, that does not cover its operating expenses. Its network of museums also faces millions in repairs. But the solution is not the kind of exclusive partnership the institution has forged with Showtime.
More than 200 filmmakers, historians, TV executives and others have signed a letter urging that the agreement be canceled. Among them are documentary filmmakers Ken Burns, Michael Moore and Alex Gibney, who directed "Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room." The Center for American Progress, a liberal-leaning organization, has sought details of the contract, under the Freedom of Information Act.
The Smithsonian officials say that the deal will affect only a few filmmakers; brief interviews or limited use of the collections will not require review by Showtime. But it is precisely the larger projects that are of concern. Filmmakers should be able to shop for the best deal for themselves and their projects. Likewise, other outlets should be able to compete freely with Showtime.