The Institute of Museum and Library Services has announced twenty-nine finalists for the 2018 National Medal for Museum and Library Service. The National Medal is the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries for community service. Over the past twenty-four years, the award has celebrated 182 institutions that demonstrated extraordinary and innovative approaches to public service.
“The twenty-nine National Medal finalists showcase the tremendous ability of libraries and museums to serve as vital community resources,” said IMLS Director Dr. Kathryn K. Matthew. “The Institute of Museum and Library Services is honored to recognize these leading institutions. We congratulate them on the work they are doing across the United States.”
Four AASLH member museums are among the finalists for this year’s medals:
Detroit Historical Society, Detroit, MI (members since 2000)
History Museum at the Castle, Appleton, WI (members since 1979)
Missouri Historical Society, St. Louis, MO (members since 1941)
National Railroad Museum, Green Bay, WI (members since 2001)
National Medal winners will be announced later this spring. Representatives from winning institutions will receive their medals at a ceremony on May 24 in Washington, D.C.
To learn more about the National Medals, visit the IMLS website.
