The Institute of Texan Cultures produces and maintains exhibits that explore Texas’s cultural heritage, focusing primarily on the lifestyles and historical contributions of its varied ethnic groups.

Curatorial Collections accepts both donations and loans for exhibition and research. Artifacts of cultural and unique value are not used for demonstration purposes and are handled only by Curatorial staff and trained Curatorial volunteers. Curatorial collections are placed in secure, climate-controlled storage until it goes on exhibit. Artifacts are researched by our team who develop the exhibit content.

Public programming,Family educational programs,Traveling exhibits and trunks( 800) 776-7651 or (210) 458-2292 Tex-Kits, Lifetimes: The Texas Experience,Symposia Docent tours,Oral history,Educational outreach,Speakers Bureau Special events, Pre-service/In-service teacher workshops ,Internships,Texas Folklife Festiva.

ITC has created strong outreach programs, which are utilized by schools and communities throughout the state. These programs range from traveling trunks containing artifact reproduction, activity cards, audiovisual materials, and books, which may be rented for two to four week periods, to Tex-Kits - boxes of artifacts on a variety of subjects that travel to schools with volunteers/staff members for hands-on discussions. Another resource is the ITC Speakers Bureau, whose members speak on topics such as folk medicine, Texas women, the Texas Folklife Festival, and the work of the Institute, etc. (Although most staff and volunteers must usually confine presentations to the greater San Antonio area, the Institute s statewide Ambassadors may sometimes address audiences in other parts of the state.)

ITC's weekday radio program, Lifetimes: The Texas Experience, presents 90-second stories on Texas people, places, and events. The Institute s annual multi-day event in June, the Texas Folklife Festival celebrates the diversity of the state through the music, food, stories, and crafts of more than 40 different ethnic and cultural groups.

Teacher training, a critical element of the Institute's mission, is carried out through a variety of in-service educational programs.

The Institute collaborates with The University of Texas at San Antonio on several programs and projects. These include training programs for university education students, opportunities for internships, and library services for UTSA students.

ITC has published several publications and audiovisuals that explore aspects of the diverse ethnic heritage of Texas. Included are books, pamphlets, video documentaries, and slide sets. Call (800) 776-7651 to receive a catalogue of products.