The Institute of Museum and Library Services today announced Columbus Museum of Art, Cuyahoga County Public Library of Cuyahoga County, and The Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County of Cincinnati as National Medal for Museum and Library Service finalists. The National Medal is the nation’s highest honor conferred on museums and libraries for service to the community and celebrates institutions that make a difference for individuals, families, and communities.
Medal finalists are selected from nationwide nominations of institutions that demonstrate innovative approaches to public service, exceeding the expected levels of community outreach. This year’s finalists exemplify the nation’s great diversity of libraries and museums and include an aquarium and marine science center foundation, conservatory and botanical gardens, county library systems, individual libraries, children’s museums, an art museum, science centers, and more, hailing from across the country.
“Museums and libraries serve as community gathering places and centers for lifelong learning, and we are very proud to announce Columbus Museum of Art, Cuyahoga County Public Library of Cuyahoga County, and The Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County of Cincinnati as finalists for the 2013 National Medal,” said Susan Hildreth, director of the Institute of Museum and Library Services. “This year’s finalists exemplify the many wonderful ways museums and libraries can respond to the needs and wants of the communities they serve.”
“Several years ago, we decided we wanted CMA to be a resource for our community and embraced the idea of becoming a visitor-centered Museum that fostered creativity and promised great experiences with great art for everyone,” said CMA Executive Director Nannette V. Maciejunes. “We’re incredibly honored to be recognized as finalist for this prestigious award and excited that the work we’ve done is resonating with our community.”
Finalists are chosen because of their significant and exceptional contributions to their communities. IMLS is encouraging community members who have visited Columbus Museum of Art to share their story on the IMLS Facebook page, www.facebook.com/USIMLS. National Medal for Museum and Library Service winners will be announced this spring.
To learn more about the 2013 National Medal finalists, visit www.imls.gov/medals.
