The National Medal for Museum and Library Service is the nation’s highest honor for institutions that make significant and exceptional contributions to their communities. Since 1994, IMLS has presented the award to outstanding libraries and museums of all types and sizes that deeply impact their communities.

2025 National Medal Deadline Has Passed

Read the press release announcing this year’s nomination window through September 6, 2024, and watch for more announcements in spring.

2024 National Medal Winners Announced

IMLS announced the winners for the 2024 National Medal for Museum and Library Services. Read the press release.

2023 National Medal Winners

The eight recipients of the 2023 National Medal for Museum and Library Service were announced on May 23, 2023. The award ceremony for the 2023 National Medal for Museum and Library Services was held at the White House on July 17, 2023.

2023 Award Ceremony

Celebrating the excellence of America's museums and libraries! Watch the 2023 National Medal for Museum and Library Service Award Ceremony.

Celebrating 25 Years of National Medals

For more National Medals videos, view the playlist on the IMLS YouTube channel.

View Past Medal Recipients

Learn more about the museums and libraries who have previously been selected to receive a National Medal.