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Cecil County Life

Library Awarded Prestigious 2015 National Medal

Apr 28, 2015 05:04PM ● By Kevin

Cecil County Public Library - Elkton, MD (CCPL) is honored to announce its selection as one of 10 national winners for the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) 2015 National Medal Award. In its 21st year, the medal is the nation’s highest honor and a prestigious award that highlights institutions for their extraordinary public service and remarkable contributions to their communities. 

Cecil County Public Library is the first Maryland winner since the National Aquarium won in 1997. 

“We are involved in the community; we listen, learn and step up whenever we can to use our resources, skills, and talents to make progress in our county,” stated Denise Davis, CCPL Director. She added, “We are deeply honored by the recognition of CCPL’s strategic focus on creating educational and economic opportunity for all, being both a community anchor for achievement as well as a champion for community success.” 

Cecil County Public Library submitted an application that focused on its educational and economic development services in addition to its specialized work with veterans. Letters of support were written by County Executive Tari Moore, Superintendent Dr. D’ette Devine, Office of Economic Development Director Lisa Webb and Senator Barbara Mikulski. 

“These National Medal recipients have demonstrated a genuine understanding of their communities and are committed to addressing community needs,” said Maura Marx, acting director of the Institute of Museum and Library Services. “IMLS believes museums and libraries are vital community anchors that enhance civic engagement, cultural and educational opportunities, and economic vitality. The remarkable community contributions these institutions have made are proof positive of this.”

In addition to Davis, a member of the community will also travel to Washington and share the impact Cecil County Public Library has had on his life during the May 18 celebration.

Finalists are chosen because of their significant and exceptional contributions to their communities. 

These ten honorees exemplify the nation’s great libraries and museums and demonstrate outstanding impact and quality of programs, services, and partnerships, exceeding the expected levels of community outreach. They were selected from thirty finalists that were among institutions from across the country that were nominated for the honor. 

After the ceremony, StoryCorps—a national nonprofit dedicated to recording, preserving, and sharing the stories of Americans—will visit Cecil County Public Library to document stories from the community. 

For a complete list of 2015 recipients and to learn more about the National Medal winners, please visit www.imls.gov/medals.  

“I am so pleased to congratulate the Cecil County Public Library on receiving the National Medal from the Institute for Museum and Library Services," said U.S. Senator Barbara Mikulski. "Our libraries are so much more than collections of books -- they are community centers and safe spaces for families to grow and learn. 

"Our libraries teach parents practical skills like how to use technology, and encourage children to discover the unlimited possibilities of their imagination. As a member of the Senate Military Family Caucus and the Veterans Jobs Caucus, I’m especially proud that the Cecil County Public Library was recognized for its programs that help veterans find jobs and support local small businesses.”

ABOUT CECIL COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY 

Cecil County Public Library is making a critical difference in education, workforce, and economic development by implementing our mission: to provide access to educational and cultural resources for 

all and to promote individual and community success. The library serves over 62,000 citizens with 7 branch locations, an outreach bookmobile, broadband, WiFi, and 24/7 website access. 

To learn more, visit www.cecil.ebranch.info and follow us on Facebook and Twitter. 

ABOUT INSTITUTE OF MUSEUM AND LIBRARY SERVICES 

The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s 123,000 libraries and 35,000 museums. Our mission is to inspire libraries and museums to advance innovation, lifelong learning, and cultural and civic engagement. Our grant making, policy development, and research help libraries and museums deliver valuable services that make it possible for communities and individuals to thrive. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter. 

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