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IMLS Accepting Nominations for the 2018 National Medal
By Donna DiMichele | July 25, 2017
Each year, the Institute of Museum and Library Services recognizes outstanding libraries and museums that have made significant contributions to improve the well being of their communities. The winning museums and libraries are presented with the National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the nation’s highest honor for community service.
IMLS is now accepting nominations for the 2018 awards. Anyone–an employee, a board member, a member of the public, or an elected official–can nominate an institution. To be considered, the institution must complete and return a nomination form by October 2, 2017.
This year, IMLS is particularly interested in museums and libraries with programs that build community cohesion and serve as catalysts for positive community change, including programs that provide services for veterans and military families, at-risk children and families, the un- and under-employed, and youth confronting barriers to STEM-related employment.
All types of nonprofit libraries and library organizations, associations and consortia are eligible, including academic, school, digital, tribal, and special libraries or archives. Public or private nonprofit museums of any discipline are eligible, including general, art, history, science and technology, children’s, and natural history and anthropology, historic houses and sites, arboretums, nature centers, aquariums, zoos, botanical gardens, and planetariums.
The ten winning institutions are honored at a ceremony in Washington, D.C., are spotlighted in the news media and on social media, and are invited to host a two-day visit from StoryCorps to record community member stories. As part of the selection process, approximately thirty finalists are chosen and are featured by IMLS during a six-week social media and press campaign.
Winning the medal elevates an institution’s profile and can positively impact fundraising, programming, and partnership and outreach activities.
Institutions interested in being considered should read the nomination form carefully and contact the designated program contacts with questions.
Program Contacts
- Museums: Mark Feitl, Program Specialist, 202-653-4635
- Libraries: Laura McKenzie, Administrative Specialist, 202-653-4644
You may also submit your question by e-mail: nationalmedals@imls.gov
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