January Kickoff Events and Activities
As America approaches 250 years since its founding, Fondren Library kicks off America250@Fondren in January 2026 with a series of exhibits and activities celebrating America’s 250th anniversary. The program is a cross library collaboration and will be updated monthly throughout the year of 2026 to advance civic education and civic engagement, in alignment with supporting Rice University Momentus Strategic Plan and new Fondren Library Strategic Plan . Guided by the Fondren Library theme “Reflect on the past, engage with the present, and envision the future,” these events explore history, civic engagement, and democracy through hands-on experiences, thought-provoking exhibits throughout the library building, lectures, music concerts, games, movies, story time, pop up events, interactive activities, and more. The program is primarily oriented toward Rice undergraduate and graduate students, but free and open to all Rice and the general public community. Should you have any questions about this engagement program or want to learn about opportunities to get involved, please contact Anna Xiong, Head of Kelley Center for Government Information and Civic Engagement, at jax2@rice.edu or email ask@rice.libanswers.com.
2026 America250@Fondren Planning Committee: Anna Xiong, Abby Stovall, Norie Guthrie, Portia Hopkins, Jeanette Sewell, Jordan Traylor, and Sean Smith. Executive advisors: Sara Lowman, Lisa Spiro and Cindy Pierard. Campus partner: Access and Institutional Excellence / Avery Hartwell, Associate Director of Student Engagement.
Kelley Center for Government Information and Civic Engagement
Fondren Basement Exhibits
Exhibit 1: History of Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Jan 12 –Jan 31)
In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day (observed on the third Monday in January), this exhibit explores the life and legacy of Dr. King and the broader national commitment to service and social justice. Explore the history behind establishing MLK Day and its significance today.
Reflection Questions:
How is a national holiday established, e.g., MLK Day?
What is the spirit of MLK Day?
How does Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s message about justice and dignity challenge the way you live, study, or engage with others in America today?
What is one action—on campus or in your community—that you can take to promote fairness, understanding, or respect across differences?
Exhibit 2: Civic Duty and the American Dream (Jan 19 – Feb 28)
This exhibit highlights civic life in 19th-century America, featuring Congressional hearings, Senator speeches, and historical civic education lesson plans. Learn about the historical roots of American democracy and reflect on your role as a citizen.
Reflection Questions:
How were civic duties taught and promoted in the 1800s?
How does early civic education compare with your civic education?
What lessons from the past can we apply today?
Do you see a return to 19th century civic education in the near future?
How does civic education turn into civic engagement?
Additional Resources:
View Fondren’s curated Reading List on Justice and Democracy
Try civics games & quizzes available on the LibGuide to test your civics knowledge on MLK Jr Day.
Also consider joining the forthcoming Fondren Library Civics Reading Club to continue the conversation. Email jax2@rice.edu to join the interest list, receive event updates, or request more information.
Woodson Special Collections
Fondren First Floor, Flat Cases outside of Woodson
Voting Doesn’t Hurt Women: Letters from the Men’s League for Woman Suffrage (New York)
This exhibit features historical letters from supportive governors advocating for women’s suffrage. It provides a fascinating look at the political and social strategies behind securing the right to vote.
Fondren First Floor, Room 156
Fight for Your Right to Protest: Celebrating the 1st Amendment
This exhibit celebrates the First Amendment through photographs and memorabilia showcasing diverse forms of protest throughout American history. Visitors can explore the ways individuals and groups have exercised their rights to free speech, assembly, and activism.
Fondren 6th Floor Exhibit Space
A Selection of Political Cartoons from C.P. Houston
Clyde Peterson, known as C.P. Houston, drew for the Houston Chronicle from 1965 to 2006. This exhibit features original Bristol board drawings covering national and local politics, offering insight into American public discourse and political satire.
RMC, First Floor – Ballroom Exhibit Space
The Also Rans: A Look Back at Those Who Lost Their Elections
Explore the flyers, pins, bumper stickers, and campaign materials of local and national candidates who didn’t win. This exhibit highlights the stories and artifacts of political campaigns that shaped history in unexpected ways.
Join Us!
These exhibits and activities are just the beginning of America250@Fondren. We invite all members of the Rice community to explore, reflect, and engage with history, democracy, and civic life throughout the year.