America’s collections are for everyone. They are
discovered billions of times a year in libraries and
museums across the country. They enlighten and
inspire all of us. Yet they are at risk.

The Institute of Museum and Library Services has created Connecting
to Collections: A Call to Action:
a multi-year, multi-faceted national initiative to raise public awareness and inspire action.

The initiative is grounded in the results of A Public Trust at Risk: The Heritage Health Index Report on the State of America’s Collections. Read more. Please visit this site often to find resources and ideas you can use to answer this urgent call to action.

Now Available Online:
The Connecting to Collections Video
Developed to underscore the importance
of collections held in museums, libraries
and archives throughout the U.S., this
video inspire communities to take action.
Watch now.

Bookshelf User's Guide also available
This 44-page booklet is a guide to the IMLS Connecting to Collections Bookshelf, a core set of texts that are essential for the care of collections. Developed by Heritage Preservation, in consultation with the Getty Foundation, the guide contains an individual sheet on each text (containing bibliographical and other information), and FAQ's. Read more.

Girl Scout Troop Discovers Hidden Gems in Conservation Project

IMLS recognizes the importance of youth to the conservation effort. By introducing young people to conservation, we help cultivate the next generation of adults who value our nation’s collections and their conservation. With this in mind, IMLS invited Girl Scout Troop 4563 in Arlington, VA, to participate in a conservation project.
Read more.