by Amanda Lima, Communications Specialist
The Institute of Museum and Library Services recently announced the Amistad Research Center as one of six recipients of the 2022 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries that make significant and exceptional contributions to their communities. Over the past 28 years, the award has celebrated institutions that are making a difference for individuals, families and communities.
“IMLS is pleased to recognize the outstanding performance and meritorious community and professional service of our six National Medal recipients,” said IMLS Director Crosby Kemper. “We look forward to celebrating them and calling attention to their great work not only in their widespread locales but across the land!”
Amistad Research Center is an independent archive and library rooted in the African American experience. Through its expansive and unique collections, as well as its intergenerational programming, Amistad serves as a community resource for scholars, educators and students, community activists, artists, filmmakers, genealogists and the media. It serves a diverse constituency, both for the New Orleans area and national and international audiences.
Selected from 30 national finalists, the 2022 National Medal for Museum and Library Service winners represent institutions that provide dynamic programming and services that exceed expected levels of service. Through their community outreach, these institutions bring about change that touches the lives of individuals and helps communities thrive.
“The Amistad Research Center is honored to be a recipient of this prestigious 2022 National Medal for Museum and Library Service,” said its board chairperson and president Kim Boyle. “Amistad was founded in 1966 during the civil rights movement, an important and pivotal time for the United States. We thank IMLS and our colleagues and constituents for recognizing Amistad’s national, state and local service. We celebrate this honor with New Orleans and the state of Louisiana. We also congratulate our fellow recipients.”
The award will be presented at a ceremony this month in Washington, DC. For a complete list of 2022 recipients and to learn more about the National Medal winners, visit https://bit.ly/3mos9l6.
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation's libraries and museums. They advance, support, and empower America’s museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development. The Institute of Museum and Library Services’ 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 them on Facebook and Twitter.
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