The Institute of Museum and Library Services announced today that the King County Library System (KCLS) is among 30 finalists for the 2023 National Medal for Museum and Library Service. KCLS is the only institution in Washington to be selected as a finalist for this award.
The National Medal is the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries that demonstrate significant impact in their communities. For more than 25 years, the award has honored institutions that demonstrate excellence in service to their communities.
“We are thrilled to be recognized for this national honor. Our mission is to establish meaningful connections and foster inclusive communities across all 50 of our libraries,” said KCLS Executive Director Lisa Rosenblum. “KCLS is dedicated to offering our patrons the necessary resources, information, and services to build critical skills, navigate life’s challenges, and flourish in their communities. This recognition only strengthens our commitment to these goals, and we look forward to continuing to serve our patrons with excellence.”
“So many museums and libraries across the country are committed to providing programs that are vital to the health and growth of engaged communities. We are very proud to announce the 30 finalists for this year’s IMLS National Medal,” said IMLS Director Crosby Kemper. “These institutions represent the best of what museums and libraries do for their communities.”
To celebrate this honor, IMLS is encouraging KCLS’ community members to share stories, memories, pictures and videos on social media using the hashtags #ShareYourStory and #IMLSmedals, and engage with IMLS on Twitter, Facebookand Instagram. For more information, please visit imis.gov at imis.gov
National Medal winners will be announced in late May. Representatives from winning institutions will be honored for their extraordinary contributions during an in-person National Medals Ceremony this summer.
To see the full list of finalists and learn more about the National Medal, visit imis.gov
