[OPLINLIST] Stark County District Library to receive 2009 National Medal for Museum and Library Service

[Marsha McDevitt-Stredney]

Please excuse multiple postings...

The Institute of Museum and Library Service (IMLS) announced the five
museums and libraries selected for the 2009 National Medal for Museum
and Library Service award this week. The honor recognizes Stark County
Public Library's vital role and commitment to serving their community.
"In these difficult financial times the Stark County District Library
has played a crucial role in assisting agencies working with the
unemployed and in directly benefiting those who have suffered job
losses," said State Librarian Jo Budler.   

Congratulations to all the staff and supporters of Stark County District
Library.

For more information visit the IMLS website at:  
http://www.imls.gov/news/2009/100609.shtm

There is also an online article about the library and award in the
CantonRep.com site: 
http://www.cantonrep.com/entertainment/arts/x366042814/Stark-County-Dist
rict-Library-wins-top-national-award
_______________________

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 6, 2009
IMLS Press Contacts
202-653-4632
Jeannine Mjoseth, jmjoseth at imls.gov
Mamie Bittner, mbittner at imls.gov 

Five Museums and Five Libraries to Receive Nation's Highest Honor 
CA, FL, IL, IN, OH OR, PA, and TN Institutions Win National Medal 

Washington, DC-The Institute of Museum and Library Service (IMLS) has
selected five museums and five libraries to receive the 2009 National
Medal for Museum and Library Service. The National Medal is the nation's
highest honor for museums and libraries that make extraordinary civic,
educational, economic, environmental, and social contributions.

"In the 21st century, these award winning libraries and museums are the
heart and soul of their communities. Their outstanding contributions
have gone above and beyond the call of duty to make a real difference in
their communities. They reach out to people of all ages and backgrounds
and invite them to explore our wonderfully diverse history, culture, and
literature. I thank them for their good work and encourage others to
follow their shining example," said IMLS Director Anne-Imelda M. Radice.


As the primary source of federal funding for the nation's museums and
libraries, the Institute has a unique perspective on the vital role
these institutions play in American society. The National Medal for
Museum and Library Service was created to underscore that role. The
winners are as diverse as the nation's cultural landscape: small and
large, urban and rural. They have one thing in common: they have
developed innovative ways to serve their communities. Winners of the
2009 National Medal for Museum and Library Service are: 

1. Braille Institute Library Services, Los Angeles, CA
2. Children's Museum of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
3. Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal, Cincinnati, OH
4. Gail Borden Public Library, Elgin, IL
5. Indianapolis Museum of Art, Indianapolis, IN
6. Multnomah County Library, Portland, OR
7. Museum of Science & Industry, Tampa, FL
8. Pritzker Military Library, Chicago, IL
9. Stark County District Library, Canton, OH
10. Tennessee Aquarium, Chattanooga, TN

In addition to the National Medal, which will be awarded in an upcoming
Washington, D.C. ceremony, each institution receives a $10,000 award.