By Lisa Daniel alking into some federal facilities can be like browsing in a small de-partment store or specialty shop. From furniture and linens to jewelry and recordings to stationery and celebrity memorabilia, Uncle Sam has something to offer almost everyone. For the brand-conscious, there are logo items such as CIA golf balls, FBI ball caps and Postal Service coffee mugs.
Shoppers can also pick up staples such as postage and boxes and collectibles such as coins.
At least a dozen agencies have retail enterprises, whether they are large-scale operations for the public or small shops for employees and visitors. Agencies hail their retailing efforts as a way of strengthening budgets without tax dollars and creating a positive public image. The Smithsonian Institution in June announced an aggressive plan to expand its earning potential by consolidating commercial ventures under a new organization known as Smithsonian Business Ventures. Although Congress provides more than 70 percent of Smithsonian funding, the appropriations are used only for buildings, operating costs and salaries and expenses. Smithsonian's commercial revenue, which is used for research and exhibitions, has declined for years, officials say.