The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) has chosen five libraries and five museums as the 2011 recipients of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. The institutes National Medal is the United States’ highest honor for museums and libraries that exhibit extraordinary civic, educational, economic, environmental, and social contributions. The recipient organizations have demonstrated 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.”

This year’s ten winners came from all over the United States. More details about these organizations and why they were selected are available through the links below.

Library Winners

• Alachua County Library District, Gainesville, FL
• Columbus Metropolitan Library, Columbus, OH
• Hill Museum & Manuscript Library, Collegeville, MN
• San Jose Public Library, San Jose, CA
• Weippe Public Library & Discovery Center, Weippe, ID

Museum Winners

• Brooklyn Museum, Brooklyn, NY
• EdVenture Children’s Museum, Columbia, SC
• Erie Art Museum, Erie, PA
• Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Richmond, VA
• Madison Children’s Museum, Madison, WI

About IMLS

The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s 123,000 libraries and 17,500 museums. The Institute’s mission is to create strong libraries and museums that connect people to information and ideas. The Institute works at the national level and in coordination with state and local organizations to sustain heritage, culture, and knowledge; enhance learning and innovation; and support professional development. To learn more about the Institute, please visit http://www.imls.gov.