2019 National Medal Finalist

Gulfport Public Library named National Medal for Museum and Library Service Finalist

Share Your Story on social media of how Gulfport Public Library has touched your life.

The National Medal for Museum and Library Service is the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries by the Institute of Museum and Library Services in recognition of exceptional service to the community and for making a difference in the lives of individuals, families, and communities. We are honored to share that Gulfport Public Library was named a finalist for the 2019 National Medal award.

This year’s finalists include public libraries and library systems; a statewide digital library; art, science, and children’s museums; and many other types of institutions that exemplify the great diversity of libraries and museums across the country.

This honor recognizes the contributions of our programs such as LGBTQ Resource Center to Gulfport, Florida. We are grateful for your continued support, and are honored to be recognized as a 2019 finalist.

“The 30 National Medal finalists showcase the tremendous ability of libraries and museums to serve as vital community resources,” said IMLS Director Dr. Kathryn K. Matthew. “The Institute of Museum and Library Services is honored to recognize these leading institutions. We congratulate them on the work they are doing across the United States.”

David Mather, Gulfport Library Director said, “The Gulfport Public Library is honored to be a 2019 National Medal Finalist. We truly appreciate that we were nominated by Representative Crist and we are grateful to be able to tell the story of our library through the people we have positively impacted. Our hope is to use the stories our community shares throughout this campaign as a learning experience. It’s remarkable to think that seemingly small interactions we have with library patrons may have a profound impact on an individual’s life, sense of community, and identity within that community. We are truly excited and humbled at the opportunity to share these experiences.” 

National Medal winners will be announced this spring. Representatives from winning institutions will be honored for their extraordinary contributions at a ceremony on June 12 in Washington, D.C.

As part of the National Medal celebration of these 30 institutions, IMLS will feature the finalists on the IMLS Facebook or Twitter pages, and provide an opportunity for you to share your story about how Gulfport Public Library has made a difference in your life.

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 libraries and museums. We advance, support, and empower America’s museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development. Our 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 us on Facebook and Twitter.