In 2026, the United States commemorates 250 years since its founding—a milestone that invites us to reflect on the many forms of cultural heritage that carry our shared history forward. These stories live in documents, objects, buildings, performances, and collections across the country. Many are fragile. Many are irreplaceable. All are essential to our collective memory.

To support stewards of every kind—museums, libraries, community groups, families, and individuals—ICA has created a guide featuring 250 practical ways to care for cultural heritage by reducing everyday risks. Most of these actions require no specialized tools. None require a conservation degree. What they do require is simple but powerful: attention.

Throughout this anniversary year, we will be sharing approachable ideas for safeguarding the materials that matter most to you. In these first weeks, we are focusing on one of the most significant—and most overlooked—sources of deterioration: light.

Light damage is cumulative and irreversible—every exposure adds up, and once fading, discoloration, or embrittlement occurs, it cannot be undone. All forms of light cause damage, not just ultraviolet (UV); visible light and even infrared radiation contribute to the gradual breakdown of materials. Organic media such as paper, textiles, photographs, and dyed or colored surfaces are especially sensitive and can show change quickly under sustained illumination.

We look forward to sharing guidance, examples, and small changes that can make a meaningful difference in the health and longevity of your collections. Together, we can honor America’s 250th year by protecting the stories, objects, and histories that connect us across generations.

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