By Susan Hildreth
Director, IMLS
As we start the new year and look back on accomplishments in 2013, it is clear to me that the success of IMLS rests on the shoulders of thousands of people in neighborhoods across America who deliver programs and services that impact cultural, educational, and lifelong-learning opportunities in their communities.
Through grants, partnerships, and participation in IMLS social networks and research, a broad range of museum and library professionals contribute to the success of IMLS programs. Each year thousands of library and museum professionals develop thoughtful grant proposals, participate as peer reviewers, and share perspectives in IMLS project profiles and blog posts. Because of their hard work IMLS-supported programs and partnerships serve millions of people in the U.S each year.
That is why it’s such a pleasure to present the 2013 annual report for the Institute of Museum and Library Services. As you will read, 2013 was a banner year for us. Those who do not know this agency well are sometimes surprised and amazed to learn about all that we do.
In 2013, the agency’s work was celebrated at the White House and on Capitol Hill. We drew national and international attention with reports and research. Working at the national level and in partnership with state and local organizations, we helped to further education, cultural preservation, early learning, and workforce development. And we made grants in every state and territory to help libraries and museums better serve the American public.
This report provides many examples of how we meet our high priority goals: helping museums and libraries offer engaging learning experiences, enabling them to be strong community anchors, aiding in the care of museum and library collections, and promoting use of technology to increase access to content.
My sincere thanks to all who make this amazing work possible.