Access Smithsonian
Access Smithsonian is a catalyst for consistent and integrated inclusive design that provides meaningful access to the Smithsonian Institution museums and content for visitors with disabilities.
Programs
A student discusses an artwork during Mornings at the Museum, a program of Access Smithsonian.
Mornings at the Museum - for families to practice going to a museum or cultural organization that respects sensory processing and cognitive difference across the spectrum. Watch the introductory video to learn more.
See Me at the Museum - for adults with dementia and their care providers to dialogue, share observations, and socialize with loved ones.
Project SEARCH - a 10-month internship for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to learn marketable job skills.
Resources
Access Smithsonian recruited this Project SEARCH intern, recently hired by the Smithsonian
Smithsonian's Accessible-Design-Guidelines.pdf, including a checklist for accessible visitor information desks
Best practices for Inclusive-Digital-Interactives.pdf, a collaborative research report by the Smithsonian, Institute for Human Centered Design, and MuseWeb
Smithsonian's guidelines for Accessible-Exhibition-Design.pdf
The Smithsonian's general accessibility standards, including legislation and regulations
Ashley’s excited to talk about –
- Smithsonian Access programming that could be adapted to Affiliate sites
- Tips and videos related to best practice in museum accessibility
- Brainstorming ways to improve accessibility practice and design as organizations reopen (this NPR interview contains some powerful thoughts)
- Helping Affiliate staff to network with advisors and experts to catalyze initiatives and/or task forces in your community
Ashley Grady
Senior Program Specialist
Access Smithsonian
GradyA@si.edu
202.486.2843
