The Chapel Hill Public Library is among several institutions up for national recognition in the coming weeks.

The Institute of Museum and Library Services announced the library is one of 30 finalists for its 2021 National Medal for Museum and Library Service. The award is the United States’ highest honor given to museums and libraries that “demonstrate significant impact in their communities.”

“This honor is a testament to our great community and our great staff,” said Chapel Hill Public Library Director Susan Brown. “We have shifted our mindset to focus on our users, understand community challenges, and align ourselves with Chapel Hill’s goals and aspirations. This has resulted in so many positive community impacts – from adopting a fine-free model to leading efforts around the history of race in Chapel Hill to creating an environmental stewardship program that is a model for other libraries. We are incredibly honored to be recognized alongside other great public institutions across the country.”

The coronavirus pandemic interrupted much of the library’s normal operations, with its building still not open to the public. Instead, Chapel Hill Public Library shifted some of its programming online and started a Park & Pick Up Service patrons can use.

2021 marks the return to awarding National Medals for the institute, which paused in 2020 after giving out the honor for 25 years.

“The revival and reinstitution of the National Medals by IMLS is another signal of recovery and renewal in the nation’s very challenging — but very hopeful — times,” said IMLS Director Crosby Kemper in a release. “We are celebrating not only the ongoing excellence of the best of our museums and libraries, but their extraordinary efforts through the pandemic, the recession, the racial justice protests, and national divisions to serve, heal, and bring together our communities. Congratulations to all 30 finalists.”

According to the library, Chapel Hill community members are encouraged to share stories, memories and photos on social media using the #IMLSmedals hashtag to building engagement around their finalist campaign.

The Institute of Museum and Library Services will announce the ten winners of the 2021 National Medal in late spring. Representatives from winning institutions will be honored during a virtual National Medal Ceremony in the summer.

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