Civic knowledge institutions – from local libraries and news outlets to museums, historical societies, and faith-based organizations – have been part of an ecosystem of “community and civic knowledge infrastructure” that helps communities access trustworthy information and stay connected. Yet many of these institutions face declining readership, foot traffic, and membership at the very moment their roles in combating misinformation, strengthening democracy, supporting local economies, and fostering belonging are most critical.

In this NationSwell Braintrust, hosted in partnership with Siegel Family Endowment, we’ll explore how funders and practitioners can seed new partnerships across these institutions, test place-based models, and move from exploratory work toward implementation. Building on Siegel’s emerging strategy around civic knowledge infrastructure and its expanding work at the intersection of technology and policy, we’ll surface shared questions on information, democracy, and AI, and identify opportunities for a “coalition of the willing” to advance this work. Together, we’ll map who needs to be at the table—from local museums and libraries to faith-based partners, community media, local government, and grassroots civic groups—clarify what success looks like, and chart potential next steps for collective action.

To encourage open and candid discussion, this event follows the Chatham House Rule – attendees may share insights from the conversation but cannot attribute statements to specific individuals or organizations. This ensures a trusted space for thoughtful dialogue and deeper insights.