The Kentucky Horse Park‘s International Museum of the Horse learned this week that it has been approved to become a new affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution. Smithsonian Affiliations is a unique outreach initiative that allows museums and educational and cultural institutions to obtain Smithsonian collections for exhibition. The program’s mission is to make the extensive Smithsonian collection more accessible to the American people by sharing artifacts and other resources with museums and cultural institutions across the country.

In addition to artifact loans, the Smithsonian helps affiliate organizations identify other Smithsonian resources to accompany exhibit loans: education and performing arts programs, expert speakers, teacher workshops, and technical assistance. Smithsonian Affiliates also receive access to professional development workshops and research opportunities for staff, and internships for students in affiliate communities