HOUSTON — The Institute of Museum and Library Services announced Children’s Museum Houston and Harris County Public Library of Houston as two of the 10 recipients of the 2024 National Medal for Museum and Library Service Tuesday.
The national medal is the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries that make significant and exceptional contributions to their communities. For the past 30 years, the award has celebrated institutions that are making a difference for individuals, families, and communities.
“IMLS is delighted to announce the 10 recipients of the 2024 National Medal for Museum and Library Service,” said IMLS Acting Director Cyndee Landrum. “These institutions and their dedicated staff are stepping up to anticipate and meet the needs of their individual communities. From New York to Arizona, these 10 recipients are unparalleled sources of education, health, jobs, and cultural resources, bridging the gaps of distance, resources, and experience for community members. We look forward to honoring their accomplishments in Washington, D.C., this summer!”
This year’s awards mark a historic milestone on multiple fronts. Notably, the institutions celebrate a groundbreaking double victory as both a library and a museum from the same city claim the prestigious honor for the first time. Furthermore, the return of the award to Houston holds special significance, marking the first win for the city since The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston received the award in 1997.
“Winning the IMLS National Medal for Museum and Library Service alongside Harris County Public Library is a remarkable achievement for the children and families of Houston,” said Children’s Museum Houston CEO Rayanne Darensbourg. “For the Museum this award symbolizes our success in ensuring that every family has access to the best science, technology, engineering, math, literacy, cultural, and art exhibits and programming – equipping children to dream big and reach their fullest potential. Together, with Harris County Public Library, we have made history, and together, we will continue to inspire, educate, and empower generations to come.”
“It is fitting that the Children’s Museum Houston and Harris County Public Library were awarded this honor in the same year. Our missions are, in many ways, parallel,” said HCPL Executive Director Edward Melton. “In a time when equitable public education has become politicized, our two organizations step up to offer access to programs and resources that inspire curiosity and nurture a lifelong love of learning. While this award honors the achievements of HCPL and CMH for the year 2024, I believe it is all about the future and our continued commitment to educational access.”
Source: Institute of Museum and Library Services
