Links: Read the 2011 National Medal Winners brochure (PDF, 1.0 MB) Learn more about IMLS and StoryCorps		Web site: Nominate a museum or library for a National Medal at www.imls.gov/medals Pictured: National Medal Award

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) has selected five libraries and five museums to receive the 2011 National Medal for Museum and Library Service. The National Medal is the nation’s highest honor for museums and libraries for extraordinary civic, educational, economic, environmental, and social contributions. Recipients must demonstrate innovative approaches to public service and community outreach.

"Congratulations to each of these organizations on receiving the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. The work they have accomplished is an inspiration to libraries and museums throughout the nation," said Susan Hildreth, IMLS Director. "With innovation, creativity and a great deal of heart they have achieved an outstanding level of public service." 

The winners of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service are selected each year by the Director of IMLS, following an open nomination process and based on the recommendations of the National Museum and Library Services Board.

The award was created to celebrate the vital role museums and libraries play in American society and is awarded to institutions that have developed innovative ways to serve their communities. Recipients of the 2011 National Medal for Museum and Library Service are:

1. Alachua County Library District, Gainesville, FL

2. Brooklyn Museum, Brooklyn, NY

3. Columbus Metropolitan Library, Columbus, OH

4. EdVenture Children’s Museum, Columbia, SC

5. Erie Art Museum, Erie, PA

6. Hill Museum & Manuscript Library, Collegeville, MN

7. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Richmond, VA

8. Madison Children’s Museum, Madison, WI

9. San José Public Library, San José, CA

10. Weippe Public Library & Discovery Center, Weippe, ID

In addition to the National Medal, which will be awarded in an upcoming Washington, D.C. ceremony, each institution receives a visit from StoryCorps.

Nominate a museum or library for the 2012 National Medal for Museum and Library Service. (Application Deadline is December 15, 2011.)