Eric Carle Museum Shortlisted for 2015 National Medal

AMHERST — The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) announced that the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst is among 30 finalists for the 2015 National Medal for Museum and Library Service.

The National Medal is the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries for service to the community. For 21 years, the award has celebrated institutions that demonstrate extraordinary and innovative approaches to public service to make a difference for individuals, families, and communities.

“Museums and libraries are the lifeblood of our communities, serving as trusted providers of critical resources, educational training, skills development, and civic and cultural enrichment,” said Maura Marx, acting director of the Institute of Museum and Library Services. “We salute the Carle for exemplary leadership in promoting lifelong learning while engaging and inspiring the public.”

Finalists are chosen because of their significant and exceptional contributions to their communities. “In 12 short years, the Carle has brought the art of children’s books to the big stage, traveling exhibitions here and abroad, and has encouraged parents everywhere to make museum-going an integral part of their children’s experience,” said Christopher Milne, the Carle’s chairman of the board.

The National Medal winners will be named later this spring, and representatives from winning institutions will travel to Washington, D.C. to be honored at an award ceremony. Winning institutions also receive a visit from StoryCorps, a national, nonprofit organization dedicated to recording, preserving, and sharing the stories of Americans of all backgrounds and beliefs.

IMLS is encouraging community members who have visited these institutions to share their stories on the IMLS Facebook page, www.facebook.com/usimls. To see the full list of finalists and learn more about the National Medal, visit www.imls.gov/medals.