Fitchburg Art Museum named 2016 Finalist for National Medal for Museum and Library Service
The Institute of Museum and Library Services today announced that the Fitchburg Art Museum is among 30 finalists for the 2016 National Medal for Museum and Library Service. The National Medal is the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries for service to the
community. For 22 years, the award has celebrated institutions that demonstrate extraordinary and innovative approaches to public service and are making a difference for individuals, families, and communities.
“The 2016 National Medal finalists make lasting differences in their communities by serving and inspiring the public,” said Dr. Kathryn K. Matthew, director of the Institute of Museum and Library Services. “We proudly recognize these museums and libraries for their invaluable work to provide citizens with educational resources, 21st century skills, and opportunities for lifelong learning. As key stewards of our nation’s future, we salute the 30 finalists for their excellence in engaging our citizenry and expanding learning of all kinds.”
Finalists are chosen becasue of thir significant and exceptional contributions to their communities. IMLS is encouraging community members who have visited the Fitchburg Art Museum to share their story on the IMLS Facebook page. To Share Your Story and learn more about how the finalist institutions make an impact, please visit www.facebook.com/USIMLS.
“It is a true honor to be recognized at a national level and in the
company of so many other impressive institutions for the work that we have done and are continuing to pursue,” said FAM Director Nick
Capasso. “All decisions, initiatives, projects, and programs at the
Fitchburg Art Museum reflect our commitment to education and the greater community.”
This honor recognizes the contributions of FAM’s community-focused and collaborative programs, including the Main Street Public Art project, our Community Gallery, our continued partnerships with the City of Fitchburg, Fitchburg State University, and New Vue Communities, and our many creative initiatives in support of our regional creative economy. We are grateful and are honored to be recognized as a 2016 finalist. To learn more visit our website www.fitchburgartmuseum.org.
The National Medal winners will be named later this spring, and representatives from winning institutions will travel to Washington, D.C., to be honored at the National Medal award ceremony. To see the full list of finalists and learn more about the National Medal, visit www.imls.gov/2016-medals.
About the Institute of Museum and Library Service
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.Their mission is to inspire libraries and museums to advance innovation, lifelong learning, and cultural and civic engagement. Their 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 them on
Facebook and Twitter.
About FAM
The Fitchburg Art Museum serves the cities of Fitchburg and Leominster and the surrounding communities in North Central Massachusetts and Southern New Hampshire. FAM was founded in 1925, and its five-building complex, with over 20,000 square feet of exhibition space, features exhibitions from its art historical collections as well as special exhibitions focused on New England contemporary art. FAM playsa vital role in the cultural life of the region and the Museum maintains active educational partnerships with the local school systems, as well as Fitchburg State University. FAM is an engine for creativity, education, community building and fun!