Smithsonian Rural Library Initiative
The Danville-Center Township Public Library is excited to announce it has been selected as one of only 16 libraries across the United States to participate in the Smithsonian Rural Library Cohort, a new initiative designed to bring Smithsonian programs, resources, and experiences directly to rural communities.
The partnership will launch in September 2026 and is a 12-month collaboration that will give the Danville Library access to Smithsonian programming, resources, and professional support at no cost. Throughout the year, the library will host at least 12 Smithsonian programs for the community, bringing world-renowned educational opportunities to Danville.
Many of these programs will feature live virtual presentations with Smithsonian experts, complete with opportunities for audience questions and discussion. However, each program will go beyond a virtual presentation. Working alongside Smithsonian staff, the library will develop interactive experiences, local connections, and community conversations that enrich each topic and create meaningful shared experiences for participants.
The Smithsonian Rural Library Initiative was created with the understanding that rural communities have rich histories and important stories worth celebrating. One aspect of the initiative that especially resonates with the library is the Smithsonian's commitment to not only share its resources, but to learn from participating communities as well. "As much as we seek to share, we aim to learn even more from communities," the Smithsonian states in describing the initiative.
As a member of the cohort, library staff will work closely with Smithsonian leadership helping shape programming. The library will also have the opportunity to collaborate throughout the year with the other 15 participating libraries from across the country, sharing ideas and learning from one another's communities.
"People in our community shouldn't have to travel hundreds of miles to experience these incredible educational opportunities," said Crystal Salenda, Head of Public Relations. "This partnership allows us to bring those experiences right here to Danville! We are incredibly honored to have been selected."
Additional details about upcoming Smithsonian programs and opportunities to participate will be announced in the coming months. Community members are encouraged to visit the library's website and follow the Danville-Center Township Public Library on social media @dplindiana to be among the first to learn about upcoming Smithsonian events and opportunities.
