The Museum joins thirteen other renowned universities, museums, libraries, and cultural institutions from both sides of the Atlantic as part of the Fathom consortium. These include Columbia University, the London School of Economics and Political Science, Cambridge University Press, The British Library, The New York Public Library, The University of Chicago, The University of Michigan, American Film Institute, RAND, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Victoria and Albert Museum, Science Museum, and the Natural History Museum.

The initial range of courses and online-learning opportunities developed by the Museum with Fathom include a free e-seminar on "Agatha Christie and Archaeology" to tie in with the major exhibition currently on show at the Museum, as well as authoritative features on Cleopatra, contemporary Japanese festivals and, to coincide with the launch of the Euro, the history of European currencies. Additional in-depth content is being developed for future presentation.

"The British Museum has an established online presence through its own websites including COMPASS object tours and the Ancient Civilizations educational sites which support the National Curriculum. The partnership with Fathom will enable a new type of lifelong learning, providing users with the opportunity to explore more widely across and between institutions and disciplines. And, in this, Fathom is an exciting vision for the future," said Dr Carol Homden, Director of Marketing and Public Affairs, The British Museum.

"We are pleased to welcome The British Museum to the Fathom consortium," said Fathom President and CEO, Ann Kirschner. "So close to the 250th anniversary of the Museum, we are struck by the role it has played in promoting an understanding of human history and culture to visitors from around the world. Together, we can use the digital medium toproject aspects of the collections distinct from those that the Museum has rendered so captivating in its physical space, introducing new and loyal visitors alike to entirely unique educational experiences online."

About Fathom Knowledge Network
Fathom is the leading source for online learning for professional development and lifelong learning. Fathom brings together lectures, interviews, articles, and exhibits by faculty and experts from some of the world's leading universities, libraries, museums, and disseminators of research. Online courses and seminars representing the best in online education are available through Fathom, as well as books and other products. Unique reference content spans all disciplines and fields of study.