National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library (NCSML) stands in the heart of Cedar Village in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, as the nation's foremost institution for the collection, interpretation, and preservation of Czech and Slovak history and culture. Founded in 1974 by second and third-generation Czech Americans, the NCSML became a Smithsonian Affiliate in 2018 and holds the American Alliance of Museums accreditation — a distinction it earned in 2008, the same year catastrophic Cedar River flooding tested the institution's resolve. Rather than rebuild in place, the museum physically relocated its original 1,500-ton structure 480 feet to higher ground, reopening in 2012 in an expanded 50,000-square-foot facility. The museum offers four distinct event spaces for private occasions: the art nouveau-inspired WFLA/ZCBJ Heritage Hall for receptions and galas of up to 240 guests; the Rozek Grand Hall, anchored by a crystal chandelier and floor-to-ceiling windows, for ceremonies and seated dinners up to 100; the outdoor Naxera Terrace overlooking the Cedar River, suited for cocktail receptions; and the intimate Hemphill Theater for presentations and screenings. In 2024, the museum dedicated the Buresh Immigration Tower, featuring the only Prague-style astronomical clock in North America.