Pamela Cruz. Peninsula 360 Press [P360P].
The Institute of Museum and Library Services ?IMLSannounced this week that the Redwood City Public Library is among 30 finalists for the 2021 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, becoming the only institution in California selected as a finalist for the award.
"IMLS' revival and reinstatement of the National Medals is another sign of recovery and renewal in very challenging, but very hopeful, times for the nation," said IMLS Director Crosby Kemper.
He added that, with this medal, he is celebrating not only the continued excellence of the best of the nation's museums and libraries, but the "extraordinary efforts through pandemic, recession, racial justice protests and national divisions to serve, heal and unite our communities."
The National Medal is the nation's highest award given to museums and libraries that demonstrate a significant impact on their communities.
Notably, for more than 25 years, the award has honored institutions that demonstrate excellence in service to their communities.
"The Redwood City Public Library has always prided itself on its creative and innovative approaches to fulfilling its mission of nurturing community by welcoming all people to experience the shared joys of literacy and learning," said Diane Howard, Mayor of Redwood City.
He also noted that the library's success in working toward the community's aspirations of inclusion, equity, awareness, safety and education has always been significant to the community, "but the library's services were truly a lifeline for residents during the incredible challenges of the past year."
To celebrate the recognition, IMLS is encouraging members of the Redwood City Public Library community to share stories, memories, photos and videos on social media as part of the campaign. Share Your Storyusing the tag #IMLSmedals.
National medal winners will be announced later this spring, and representatives from the winning institutions will be honored for their extraordinary contributions during a virtual National Medal Ceremony this summer.
For a complete list of finalists and more information about the National Medal, visit https://www.imls.gov/.
