2025
SCHEDULE
Disaster Risk Management for Cultural Heritage at the Smithsonian and Beyond
2:10–2:50 pm
| Tuesday, Sept. 23Through the Smithsonian’s almost 200-year history of caring for its vast array of collections, it has, in turn, amassed an immense wealth of collections management knowledge. This professional knowledge has been acquired through daily operations, research, and, unfortunately, through its staff experiences during emergencies.
As the history and culture of communities continue to be threatened or impacted by disasters, the Smithsonian realizes that its honed professional knowledge could be immensely helpful to all who take care of heritage. The Smithsonian’s two collections disaster-focused entities, the Preparedness and Response in Collections Emergencies program and the Smithsonian Cultural Rescue Initiative, both improve the Smithsonian’s ability to care for its own massive collection, as well as share that information with others who are facing similar risks. This session will briefly touch on both programs, their partnership, and how those interested can connect with these two organizations.
