The San Mateo County Libraries system is among 30 finalists for the 2023 National Medal for Museum and Library Service.
The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) announced the list of finalists last week.
The 13-library San Mateo system said in a statement that the “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.”
“At San Mateo County Libraries, we are champions of learning, growing, and bright futures,” Anne-Marie Despain, director of San Mateo County Libraries, said in the statement. “We strive to ignite growth through transformative experiences, and we are thrilled to be recognized for our achievement through this national honor.”
To celebrate the honor, IMLS is encouraging San Mateo County Libraries community members to share stories, memories, pictures, and videos on social media using the hashtags #ShareYourStory and #IMLSmedals.
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.
The full list of finalists can be found on the IMLS website.