The Wilmington Institute Free Library Named Finalist for 2022 IMLS National Medal for Museum and Library Service
April 8, 2022
Wilmington, Del.—The Institute of Museum and Library Services announced today that the Wilmington Institute Free Library (also known as the Wilmington Library) is among 30 finalists for the 2022 National Medal for Museum and Library Service. The Wilmington Library is the only institution in the state of Delaware 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.
“So many museums, so many libraries have done such good work over the last two very difficult years. We are proud to present the 30 finalists for the IMLS National Medal,” said IMLS Director Crosby Kemper. “Their work is emblematic of the response of the library and museum worlds to simultaneously fulfilling their mission and serving their communities.”
The Wilmington Library has discovered how to make the library cool. The institution uses the swagger of local barbers to get young people to read, and the star power of diverse popular celebrities to expand local worldviews, learning, and achievement. In designing these “Community Cool” strategies, Library Director Jamar Rahming challenges staff to create programs that would surprise and delight locals: “I want locals to see themselves, hear voices like theirs, be reminded of what makes them beautiful, see diversity celebrated as strength, meet new heroes, find new opportunities, and see a brighter future.”
As Wilmington Public Library efforts and events draw broader audiences, attract the attention of media and community leaders, and reposition the library as a cool hub of civic activity, city and county officials are seeing the rewards. Increases in downtown activity and public engagement prove that libraries continue to be strong catalysts for educational, economic, and social advancement.
To celebrate this honor, IMLS is encouraging the Wilmington Library’s community members to share stories, memories, pictures, and videos on social media using the #ShareYourStory and #IMLSmedals hashtags, and engage with IMLS on Facebook and Twitter and with Wilmington Public Library on Facebook and Instagram. For more information, please visit the IMLS website.
National Medal winners will be announced in early June. Representatives from winning institutions will be honored for their extraordinary contributions during a virtual National Medal Ceremony this summer.
To see the full list of finalists and learn more about the National Medal, visit the IMLS website.
About the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s libraries and museums. We advance, support, and empower America’s museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development. Our vision is a nation where museums and libraries work together to transform the lives of individuals and communities. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
About the Wilmington Institute Free Library.
The Wilmington Institute Free Library (also known as Wilmington Library) is one of the oldest public libraries in the nation, chartered in 1788 to strengthen community social, moral, and intellectual advancement. Today the library’s mission continues to promote community and individual well-being by connecting people, building community, and transforming lives through the power of information and the power of stories. To learn more, visit Wilmington.lib.de.us and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.