America250 is the nationwide commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary in 2026 led by the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission.
The U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission was established by Congress (P.L. 114-196) to inspire Americans to participate in the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. The commission is charged with orchestrating the largest and most inclusive anniversary observance in our nation’s history.
IMLS has already made several awards in support of the America250 movement and its themes. For example:
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The American Philosophical Society in Pennsylvania is using an IMLS National Leadership Grant to develop a new “digital portal that will uncover hidden stories from Philadelphia’s revolutionary past.”
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The Massachusetts Library System used IMLS grant funds to develop the “10 Questions for Young Changemakers,” a resource for civic education in the digital age which aims to help young people achieve successful, equitable, and effective participation in a new media environment.
Specific plans to support America250 will be announced by IMLS and other agencies in the coming months and years.
The American Association for State and Local History (AASLH) has published a field guide for the semiquincentennial. The English and Spanish versions can be viewed and downloaded at the links below: