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    Days of Learning

    Des Moines elementary students participating in the History Alive program in 2019.
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    The Days of Learning program from the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs connects educators, students, parents and lifelong learners from around the state with dynamic programming to showcase Iowa's arts, history, humanities and film. 

    These free collections are created in partnership with other cultural and humanities organizations to offer expansive online resources to inspire inquisitive minds – regardless of age, zip code or learning style – to celebrate Iowa culture, to better understand Iowa's past and to preserve its stories for the future.

    • Live and recorded programs from the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs – including the Iowa Arts Council, State Historical Society of Iowa and Produce Iowa, the state office of film and media – and partner organizations
    • Featured content from digital archives, photo galleries, podcasts and more – all selected by expert staff
    • Activities for children and families to encourage creative thinking
    • K-12 offerings for educators that align with Iowa Core standards 

    George Washington Carver

    George Washington Carver
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    In 2022, a bill was signed that designates February 1 as a perpetual day of honor for George Washington Carver in Iowa. Educated at Simpson College and Iowa State Agricultural College (now Iowa State University), Carver went on to have an illustrious career at Tuskegee Institute (now Tuskegee University), and was one of the most prominent Black scientists of the early 20th century. Curated by experts from the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with cultural and humanities organizations, these dynamic digital resources, videos and more help Iowans better understand Carver’s influence in Iowa and beyond. 

    Iowa 175

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    In 2021, the State of Iowa celebrates 175 years of statehood. History in Iowa, like anywhere else, is a mix of moments, milestones and memories. This special online collection features highlights of the history that Iowans share. Curated by experts from the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with cultural and humanities organizations from across the state, these dynamic digital resources, videos and more help Iowans celebrate the rich and lengthy history of the state!

    Celebrate Moments & Cultures

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    History in Iowa, like anywhere else, is a complex mix of moments, milestones, memorable stories and points of view. This Celebrate Moments & Cultures curated collection features a few of Iowa's high points in arts, film and history. Curated by experts from the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with cultural and humanities organizations from across the state, these dynamic digital selections, videos and more help Iowans understand the state's rich history and offer a few reasons to celebrate. 

    Iowa's People & Places

    Left, portrait of the Brown family. Buxton, Iowa (ca.1910); Top Right, Rivera and Ayala family (ca. 1930); Bottom Right, Cities Calmar New RR station with lots of activity (ca. 1870)
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    Iowa history and culture reflect the experiences of many people – from the land's first inhabitants to present-day residents. Iowa's People & Places curated collection provides dynamic digital selections, videos and more from staff experts. It was created in partnership with other cultural and humanities organizations to provide extensive educational offerings. 

    Thank you to the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs' Days of Learning Sponsors MidAmerican Energy, Musco Lighting and the National Endowment for the Humanities. 

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