Georgetown Public Library named as finalist for National Medal for Museum and Library Service

The Institute of Museum and Library Services today announced the Georgetown Public Library has been named a finalist for the 2018 National Medal for Museum and Library Service. The library is one of 29 finalists named.

The National Medal is the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries for service to their communities. For 24 years, the award has celebrated institutions that demonstrate extraordinary and innovative approaches to public service and are making a difference for individuals, families, and communities.

“Being named a finalist for the IMLS National Medal is truly an honor and community achievement,” Library Director Eric Lashley said. “It is exciting for our staff, volunteers, and community partners to be recognized at the national level for our efforts to engage, enlighten, and empower members of our community.”

The San Antonio Public Library is the only public library in Texas to have won the IMLS National Medal.

“The 29 National Medal finalists showcase the tremendous ability of libraries and museums to serve as vital community resources,” IMLS Director Dr. Kathryn K. Matthew said. “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.”

Finalists are chosen because of their significant and exceptional contributions to their communities. Georgetown Public Library programs including the WOW!Mobile, the community resources coordinator, arts and culture coordination for the City, art and music programming in the library, children’s and teen programing, and the strong Friends of the Georgetown Public Library organization all helped to make the library stand out from other applications.

IMLS is encouraging community members who have visited the library to share their story on social media. To #ShareYourStory, please visit www.facebook.com/USIMLS or www.twitter.com/us_imls and use #IMLSmedals.

National Medal winners will be announced later this spring. Representatives from winning institutions will be honored for their extraordinary contributions at the National Medal Ceremony on May 24 in Washington, D.C.

To see the full list of finalists and learn more about the National Medal, visit www.imls.gov.