FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Press Contact:
Elizabeth Holtan, eholtan@imls.gov
202-653-4630
Nominate Your Museum or Library for an IMLS National Medal
Submissions Due October 1, 2018
Washington, DC—The Institute of Museum and Library Services is now accepting nominations for the 2019 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the nation’s highest honor awarded to libraries and museums for service to their communities.
Anyone—an employee, a board member, a volunteer, a member of the public, or a government official—is invited to nominate an institution. Museums and libraries of most disciplines and types are eligible. To be considered, the institution must complete and return the nomination materials (PDF 219KB) by October 1, 2018.
Now in its 25th year, the annual IMLS National Medal for Museum and Library Service recognize libraries and museums whose programs and services contribute demonstrably to the wellbeing of their communities. Medalist institutions exceed typical levels of community outreach by supporting community cohesion and helping to catalyze positive change. Winners’ collaborative, adaptive programs, co-created with their communities, demonstrate exemplary service.
Nominees should review the IMLS Strategic Plan and highlight how their work aligns with the goals of promoting lifelong learning, building institutional capacity, and increasing access to their information and collections. Successful applications will showcase how their work with these contexts is making a difference for their communities.
This year, IMLS is particularly interested in library or museum programs that enhance services for veterans and military families, sustain growth opportunities for diverse youth and young professionals, or provide assistance to diverse youth, families, or seniors. Institutions interested in being considered should read the nomination form carefully and contact the designated program contacts with questions.
Museums: Mark Feitl, Museum Program Officer, mfeitl@imls.gov, 202-653-4635
Libraries: Madison Bolls, Senior Program Officer, mbolls@imls.gov, 202-653-4786
You may also contact IMLS via e-mail at nationalmedals@imls.gov. More information about the National Medals can be found on the IMLS website.
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 libraries and museums. We advance, support, and empower America’s museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development. Our vision is a nation where museums and libraries work together to transform the lives of individuals and communities. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.