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 include the Gail Borden Library in Elgin, IL.  The Gail Borden Public Library is the heart and hub of exciting activities in Elgin, Illinois. Its motto, “Learning is a Journey…Start It Here,” has been the inspiration behind many activities, including the Dr. Torres Library Card Challenge, a month-long program that resulted in 8,000 new library cards for local kids; the A Tapestry of Freedom project, which encouraged residents – especially foreign-born patrons – to share their stories of struggle and triumph with fellow Elgin citizens; and the GIANTS: African Dinosaurs and SPACE: Dare to Dream programs that brought to the library prehistoric visitors and objects from far flung galaxies. With all of the fantastic programs and events at the Gail Borden Public Library, community members ask just one question: “What next!”

U.S. Senator Roland Burris (IL) “I am extremely proud of the Gail Borden Public Library, one of only 10 institutions selected for this prestigious award. For more than a century, this fine public library has served the needs of local residents through innovative means, including special exhibits and programs such as the Readership van. It has become an invaluable leader in the community – a center for literacy, learning, and exploration. The Gail Borden Public Library is a credit to the entire Elgin community and the great State of Illinois. I commend this institution for the fine work that has led to this award, and look forward to hearing of their continued success in the future.”

U.S. Representative Bill Foster (IL-14) “I congratulate the Gail Borden Public Library in Elgin for being awarded with the prestigious 2009 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the highest national honor that can be bestowed upon a museum or library. For more than 100 years, the Gail Borden Public Library has been a beloved public resource, bringing residents together to learn and grow, and also partnering with area groups and organizations to energize our community.”

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

Picture above: The library’s SPACE: Dare to Dream project featured a recreation of Galileo’s studio, complete with a working model of his telescope.