Centereach, NY - February 24th, 2015 - The Institute of Museum and Library Services today announced that New York’s Brooklyn Public Library, Middle Country Public Library, The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, New York Hall of Science, The Strong, and The Wild Center are among the 30 finalists for the 2015 National Medal for Museum and Library Service. The National Medal is the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries for service to the community.
For 21 years, the award has celebrated institutions that demonstrate extraordinary and innovative approaches to public service to make a difference for individuals, families, and communities.
“Museums and libraries are the lifeblood of our communities, serving as trusted providers of critical resources, educational training, skills development, and civic and cultural enrichment,” said Maura Marx, acting director of the Institute of Museum and Library Services. “We salute Brooklyn Public Library, Middle Country Public Library, The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, New York Hall of Science, The Strong, and The Wild Center for exemplary leadership in promoting lifelong learning while engaging and inspiring the public.”
Finalists are chosen because of their significant and exceptional contributions to their communities. IMLS is encouraging community members who have visited Brooklyn Public Library, Middle Country Public Library, The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, New York Hall of Science, The Strong, and The Wild Center to share their story on the IMLS Facebook page. To Share Your Story and learn more about how these institutions make an impact, please click here.
The National Medal winners will be named later this spring, and representatives from winning institutions will travel to Washington, D.C. to be honored at the National Medal award ceremony.
To see the full list of finalists and learn more about the National Medal, visit www.imls.gov/medals.
About the Institute of Museum and Library Services
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s 123,000 libraries and 35,000 museums. Our mission is to inspire libraries and museums to advance innovation, lifelong learning, and cultural and civic engagement. Our grant making, policy development, and research help libraries and museums deliver valuable services that make it possible for communities and individuals to thrive. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.