The 1,200 square foot exhibition is based on the original, which has been on display at the NMNH since 2010 and has been visited by more than 20 million people. The idea behind the exhibit–and its accompanying programs—is to provide the public with an opportunity to learn about evolution. To help create this open-minded atmosphere, the NMNH has assembled a panel of scientists and a group of religious and philosophical representatives from a variety of perspectives to develop programs related to the topic. Libraries that are selected to participate in this event will also need to form this kind of committee to assist with the programs.[2]

Some of the required programs include an opening event, a community conversation, a discussion specifically for the local clergy and community leaders, a half-day training for science teachers and other science education-related trainers, and a general lecture for the public on new research being done in the field of evolution. These programs are led by staff involved with the exhibition. The library is also required to hold other programs that fit the topic and are assisted in development by the local committee that is formed.[3]

To apply, each library must select a program director who will attend training in March 2015 in Washington, D.C. The proposal narrative has several pieces of important information that need to be taken into serious consideration, including possible presenters and members of the community panel, as well as detailed information on publicity, partnerships, and the exhibition space. And, did I mention the applications are due November 19?[4]

It’s not every day that an opportunity to bring a piece of a world-renowned museum to your patrons’ doorsteps. The application process and program planning will be detailed and may be a little intensive, but bringing such an amazing exhibition and discussion to your community will have the opportunity to enrich a multitude of lives!

Works Cited

[1]American Library Association. “ALA, Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History Announce ‘Exploring Human Origins’ Traveling Exhibition Opportunity.” American Library Association. August 19, 2014. http://www.ala.org/news/press-releases/2014/08/ala-smithsonian-s-national-museum-natural-history-announce-exploring-human-0 (accessed September 17, 2014).

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What is historical context? Historical context is the elements that permeate the lives of every living person; the local history of where they were born, the events that may have shaped their lives, and the living conditions that often can provide some measure of explanation about who they were as people. For example, if you know in advance that the local county courthouse burned down and that many records were destroyed, you will know that you will have to find other avenues to locate records and documents that you might need.

So how do you situate your ancestors in historical context? Start with your local public library. Many public libraries keep reference materials about the location in which they are found that can include history, prominent citizens, city directories, genealogy books about first families in the area, and many other tidbits that can be of use to your research. Don’t forget to keep records of what sources you have looked at as you go! Make notes of where you found the book(s) so you can always retrace your steps should the unthinkable happen and your research gets lost or destroyed.

If you don’t have access to the public library in the area you are researching, try the local historical societies. These treasure troves of information can lead to resources you never knew existed! A simple Google search can reveal numerous historical societies. Do not be afraid to reach out to them for assistance, especially if you are working in the South. The United States South can prove to be quite difficult to conduct research in beyond a certain point. Due to the widespread destruction caused by the American Civil War, many sources of records were lost. This can be quite a frustrating experience, but by using local historical societies you can begin to piece together the history of the area. Many small historical societies are run by individuals with direct connections to the people, places, and things that you may want to know, so do not be afraid to ask questions. You never know when someone will tell you that they knew so-and-so who happened to know your grandfather. This happened to me during my own genealogical research, and the resulting information proved to be quite useful indeed. Genealogy research is a lot like detective work—you have to piece together the past in order to understand the motives and actions of your ancestors. While this can be a painstaking process, the rewards are worth it.

In my next article, we will be looking at the United States Census records including what they show, how to read them and where to find them. Keep researching—the answers are out there!

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