Frequently Asked Questions: Museum on Main Street

Thinking about hosting the Smithsonian Museum on Main Street exhibition Voices and Votes exhibit in your community? This FAQ covers everything you need to know, from eligibility and site requirements to program support and training. Explore the details to find out if the Museum on Main Street program is a good fit for your town!

What is the Smithsonian Museum on Main Street (MoMS)?

MoMS is a one-of-a-kind program that brings Smithsonian traveling exhibits to small-town museums, libraries, and other cultural venues. A collaboration between the Smithsonian Institution and state humanities councils like Georgia Humanities, MoMS gives small and rural communities access to top-tier exhibitions, professional development and capacity building, and support for local programming.

Why should we host a MoMS exhibit?

Hosting a MoMS exhibit can bring your community together, attract visitors, and give you the chance to showcase your local history alongside national stories curated by the Smithsonian. It’s a great way to encourage new partnerships, get people talking in and about your community, and celebrate what makes your town special.

What will my community get if we host?

Your community will receive:

  • The Smithsonian Voice and Votes exhibit for six weeks, free of charge
  • Training and resources to help you plan programs and events
  • A $2,500 grant to support your local programming (more on that below!)

What kinds of organizations can apply?

Museums, libraries, historical societies, community centers, schools and universities, and other nonprofits or local government entities are all eligible to apply. We encourage applications from small and rural communities!

What do you mean by “small and rural communities”?

We define small and rural as areas with populations between 5,000 and 15,000 people. Priority will be given to applications from smaller towns, but we’re open to organizations in larger areas if they’re a good fit for the program. Be sure to tell us why your community would benefit from MoMS in your application!

What’s required from us?

To host, you’ll need:

  • A venue with at least 1,000 square feet of display space and 8-foot ceilings.
  • A project director (staff or volunteer) to lead the exhibit planning.
  • A host committee with diverse voices from your community.
  • At least two local humanities programs that tie into the exhibit.

What will the training look like?

We’ll provide hands-on workshops that cover everything from setting up and breaking down the exhibit, to planning events and programs, to promoting the exhibit and engaging your community. You’ll get ongoing support from the team at Georgia Humanities, our state scholar Dr. Tammy Greer, and consultants from the Smithsonian.

What do you mean by humanities programs, and will you help us develop it?

Humanities programs are the various events, resources, activities, and experiences that connect the exhibit to your community’s history and culture. Examples include lectures or public discussions, teaching guides, photo contests, oral history/community storytelling booths, book clubs, film screenings, and more.

Both Georgia Humanities and the Smithsonian have model programs available. We can work with you to tailor them to your community’s needs or help you brainstorm and plan your own program ideas.

What is the schedule for the tour in 2026?

The exhibit will travel to six Georgia communities in 2026, staying in each location for six weeks. Once selected, we’ll work with each host to schedule specific dates.

Can we apply if we’ve hosted a MoMS exhibit before?

Yes, we welcome returning hosts! Preference will be given to communities that have not yet hosted, though.

Can we apply if we also received a Georgia Humanities grant?

Yes, you’re still eligible to apply!

Can you tell us more about the Voices and Votes exhibit?

The Voices and Votes exhibit explores the history of democracy in America. It is designed to start conversations about voting, civic engagement, and what democracy means today.

Major themes covered include: The Great Leap; A Vote, A Voice; The Machinery of Democracy; Beyond the Ballot; and Creating Citizens. Visit the Museum on Main Street site to learn more about the exhibit content.

How do we apply?

Apply by registering for Foundant and completing the application form. You can preview the application form here. Applications are due November 1, 2024.

When will we find out if our community is selected?

Host communities will be notified by March 2025.

More questions?

Contact grants program coordinator Jerald Crook at jcrook@georgiah​umanities.org or schedule a 30-minute meeting with Jerald using this link.

Start typing and press Enter to search