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Chicago Public Library Named Finalist for the 2014 National Medal for Museum and Library Service
Friday, March 21, 2014
By: Veronica Brown

The Institute of Museum and Library Services has announced that the Chicago Public Library is a finalist for a prestigious national award bestowed on museums and libraries.

Celebrating its 20th year, the award is presented to museums and libraries for service to the communities. Each year the award recognizes institutions that provide vibrant programming and essential community services to children, adults, and families, in neighborhoods nationwide.

The Chicago Public Library Foundation nominated the Chicago Public Library for this award. Finalists are selected from nationwide nominations that recognize institutions demonstrating innovative approaches to public service.

With the support of the Chicago Public Library Foundation, the Chicago Public Library continues to expand its services for patrons of all ages, from the Maker Lab, which free hands-on experience with 3D design software, 3D printers and other digital tools, to YOUmedia spaces and programming for teens, to the 71,000 children  -- a record number -- who participated in the 2013 Summer Learning Challenge.

“CPL is thrilled to be one of 30 finalists for the National Medal for Museum and Library Service,” says Library Commissioner Brian Bannon. “And we’re honored that our commitment to connecting Chicagoans through their neighborhood library, and providing access to cutting edge technologies, is being recognized on a national level.”

National Medal for Museum and Library Service winners will be announced this spring. IMLS is encouraging community members who have visited the Chicago Public Library to share their stories on the IMLS Facebook page, www.facebook.com/USIMLS.

The Institute of Library and Museum Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s 123,000 libraries and 17,500 museums. Its mission is to inspire libraries and museums to advance innovation, lifelong learning, and cultural and civic engagement. To learn more about IMLS, visit http://www.imls.gov.