The museum collections have grown steadily over the years, both in scope and number. Starting from an ethnographical background, they have expanded in fields of Prehistory, History and Natural History. Now the Museum holds a valuable national collection of cultural and natural materials. The museum holds a vast archaeological collection among which is evidence from the biggest trade market in central Africa and mine findings of the Broken Hill Man, it also holds the largest reference collection of the biodiversity of Zambia, being particularly strong in birds and mammals.  It has a rich ethnographic collection dating back to the early 20th century and holds a vast collection of David Livingstone memorabilia. The museum has one of the oldest libraries in the country as well as an extensive archive, boasting the oldest collection of relics and documents connected with Northern Rhodesia.