First Lady to Present National Medal to Outstanding Museums, Libraries May 8, 2013

White House Ceremony Celebrates Exceptional Contributions to Communities

May 2, 2013

Media Advisory

www.imls.gov

WHAT:

In a White House Ceremony on May 8, First Lady Michelle Obama will join Director Susan Hildreth and the Institute of Museum and Library Services to present the 2013 National Medal for Museum and Library Service. Ten institutions from across the country will be honored. In addition to the museum and library leaders, a member from each recognized community will participate in the ceremony to highlight how the museum or library has affected their lives.

Boston Children's Museum, Boston, Mass.
Columbus Museum of Art, Columbus, Ohio
Delta Blues Museum, Clarksdale, Miss.
Discovery Science Center, Santa Ana, Calif.
Marshalltown Public Library, Marshalltown, Iowa
National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Pierce County Library System, Tacoma, Wash.
Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, Cincinnati, Ohio
Rancho Cucamonga Public Library, Rancho Cucamonga, Calif.
Waukegan Public Library, Waukegan, Ill.

WHO: First Lady Michelle Obama
Director Susan Hildreth, Institute of Museum and Library Services
Medal Winner Institution Directors & Community Members
National Museum and Library Services Board

WHEN:

Wednesday, May 8, 1:30 p.m.

WHERE:

The White House, East Room

CREDENTIALING:

Any reporter interested in covering this event must contact Sara Neumann at (202) 414-0788 or sneumann@susandavis.com by Monday, May 6 at 1 p.m. EDT to initiate the credentialing process.

MEDIA NOTE:

To coordinate advance or on-site interviews with IMLS Director Susan Hildreth or 2013 National Medal for Museum and Library Service recipients and community members, please contact Sara Neumann at (202) 414-0788 or sneumann@susandavis.com.

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 123,000 libraries and 17,500 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 .