Exhibitions

Explore early handmade books through the myriad natural materials—animal, vegetable, and mineral—that went into their making. Nature of the Book shows what the use of these varied and sometimes surprising resources can tell us about the book, touching on questions of use, process, global trade, and economy. On display in the National Museum of Natural History through September 3, 2024 and Online.

Eleven objects – books, videos, and more – significant to the African American story are featured in this exhibition of highlights from the National Museum of African American History and Culture Library, part of the Smithsonian Libraries and Archives. They span over a hundred years and a variety of formats – from an 1886 biography of Harriet Tubman to a 2009 artists’ book celebrating the inauguration of President Barack Obama. On display at the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

Women’s leadership in music and social change is central to the American story. Music HerStory explores these contributions through unique collections from the Smithsonian Libraries and Archives, the Center for Folklife and Culture Heritage, and more. Through March 24, 2025 at the National Museum of American History.

The Smithsonian Institution is celebrating 175 years of the “increase and diffusion of knowledge.” Join us as we re-examine our history. What can we learn from looking back? How might the stories of the past put our present in a new light?