This report describes the Smithsonian Institution Information Retrieval (SIIR) System, a computerized information management system for natural history museums, as well as computer developments subsequent to SIIR, and the SELGEM system which evolved from SIIR and discusses their application to data processing and collection management in museums. The methodology used in defining the scope of SIIR, the basic problems in preparing data for automation, and the definition and design of the files are covered. SELGEM, a generalized system for information storage, management, and retrieval, especially suited for collection management in museums, is an outgrowth of the SIIR system. It is used in several hundred applications by nearly all bureaus of the Smithsonian Institution. Procedures for SELGEM file updating, retrieval, sorting, editing, thesaurus processing, and indexing are discussed. A partial listing of SELGEM users at other museums and institutions is included, along with users and uses of SELGEM at the Smithsonian. Some of the more important publications relating to the system's development, application, description, and products are also listed. (Author/MBR)