Since 1830, the Society has connected people to the past by collecting, preserving, interpreting, and disseminating the state's history. A nonprofit membership organization, the IHS also publishes books and periodicals; sponsors teacher workshops; provides youth, adult, and family programming; provides support and assistance to local museums and historical groups; and maintains the nation's premier research library and archives on the history of Indiana and the Old Northwest. The society also maintains the Indiana History Center, where events and programs are held and exhibits housed.
The center offers exhibits, tours, lectures, film screenings, research library access, and educational and recreational programs.