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MEDIA ADVISORY: Report Highlights Roles of Libraries and Museums in School Success

Jun 17, 2013

High level Department of Education and Health and Human Services officials join IMLS and the Campaign for Grade-Level Reading to launch a new report on early learning. Anacostia Library in Washington, DC, hosts June 20 event. Read More

White House Highlights Museum and Library “Champions of Change”

Jun 10, 2013

On Tuesday, June 11th, the White House will honor twelve people as museum and library “Champions of Change,” for their work making a difference for their neighborhoods and for our nation. Read More

IMLS and WebJunction Convening Examines Continuing Education for Library Professionals

Jun 06, 2013

The Institute of Museum and Library Services and WebJunction hosted a convening of fifteen library organizations for an upcoming report on state of continuing education. Read More

2013 National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Awards Finalists Announced

May 22, 2013

The President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities, and its cultural partners, the National Endowment for the Arts, the National Endowment for the Humanities, and the Institute of Museum and Library Services, are proud to recognize 50 exceptional programs for their work in providing rich arts and humanities learning opportunities for young people. The NAHYP Award is the nation’s highest honor for out-of-school arts and humanities programs. Read More

IMLS Invites Civic-Minded Techies to Hack Agency Data

May 21, 2013

The first National Day of Civic Hacking is June 1 and 2, 2013. More than 90 sites across the country are planning events that will bring together techies, entrepreneurs, do-gooders, and activists to invent new tools using publicly-released data from local, state and federal government agencies. The Institute of Museum and Library Services is joining in, contributing challenges and data about museums and libraries. Read More

Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer Swears In Five Presidential Appointees to the National Museum and Library Services Board

May 09, 2013

Althemese Pemberton Barnes, Vishakha Desai, Tammie Kahn, George Kerscher, and Jacquelyn K. Sundstrand were appointed by President Barack Obama. Read More

National Medal for Museum and Library Service to Be Awarded Today at White House

May 08, 2013

First Lady Michelle Obama presents the 2013 National Medal for Museum and Library Service. White House celebration recognizes exceptional contributions of 10 museums and libraries. Read More

Institute of Museum and Library Services Announces Recipients of 2013 National Medal for Museum and Library Service

Apr 23, 2013

Congratulations to the 2013 recipients of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. The these museums and libraries are helping to build stronger communities. Read More

Learn How Your Museum or Garden Can Join the First Lady’s Initiative

Apr 17, 2013

IMLS will host a free webinar to provide ideas and advice for museums and gardens that wish to participate in the First Lady Michelle Obama’s Lets Move! initiative. Read More

WebWise Reprise 2013: Free Online Webinars

Apr 16, 2013

IMLS, in cooperation with Heritage Preservation, will present two free webinars in June that explore how two cultural institutions are using digital images to increase and improve access to their collections. Read More

USCIS Welcomes New Citizens at the Library of Congress to Celebrate National Library Week

Apr 15, 2013

IMLS Director Susan Hildreth participated in a naturalization ceremony at Library of Congress during a National Library Week celebration. At the event IMLS and USCIS announced a partnership to encourage and recognize collaboration between citizen and immigration services and public libraries. Read More

National Student Poets Celebrate Poetry Month Across the United States

Apr 12, 2013

The five teenage National Student Poets serve as literary ambassadors for poetry. They are helping to celebrate National Poetry Month by spreading the word about their craft at workshops and events around the country. Read More

Grant Awards Announcement: FY 13 Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program

Apr 11, 2013

The professional Development and education grants will help underserved communities, increase diversity among librarian recruits, and train in emerging fields of cloud computing and cybersecurity. Read More

President’s Budget Request Includes $225,812,538 for the Institute of Museum and Library Services

Apr 10, 2013

The budget highlights library and museum roles in 21st century skills with a special emphasis on STEM and on early childhood learning. Read More

IMLS Statement on FY 2013 Budget

Apr 08, 2013

Agency programs, research and administration cut 5.2% Read More

Call for Examples of Museum and Library Work in Comprehensive Community Revitalization

Mar 20, 2013

Submit your ideas for case studies by March 31 Read More

Video Game Design Is More Than Writing Code

Mar 18, 2013

Webinars show museums and libraries how to get youth involved in the National STEM Video Game Challenge. Read More

IMLS Director Susan Hildreth Supports Broad Access to Federally Funded Research

Mar 14, 2013

Under a directive of the White House, IMLS is improving access to valuable research. Read More

IMLS Launches Page on Facebook

Mar 04, 2013

Finalists for the National Medal show the community value of museums and libraries. Read More

IMLS and Library of Congress Announce New National Digital Stewardship Residency

Feb 21, 2013

Applications are being accepted from recent master’s program graduates for nine-month residencies in the Washington, D.C. area. Read More

Institute of Museum and Library Services Announces 2013 National Medal for Museum and Library Service Finalists

Feb 14, 2013

Visit IMLS Facebook Page and Share Your Story. Read More

Calling All Youth Gamers: Contest for Original Video Games Now Open

Feb 11, 2013

IMLS is expanding opportunities for libraries and museums to support the 2013 National STEM Video Game Challenge, which is now excepting applications. Read More

IMLS and Nine International Research Funders Announce Round Three of the Digging into Data Challenge

Feb 05, 2013

IMLS joins nine other funders for the international Digging into Data Challenge, a grant program that spurs projects that explore how computationally intensive research methods can be used to gain new insights into our world. Read More

Call for Applications: 2013 Native Hawaiian Library Services Program

Jan 29, 2013

Applications are now being accepting for the Native Hawaiian Library Services Grant program. Note that the program’s deadline is now April 1, 2013. Read More

WebWise 2013: Audrey Watters Announced as Keynote Speaker

Jan 23, 2013

Freelance writer Audrey Watters has been chosen as one of the keynote speakers for the 2013 WebWise Conference. Read More

IMLS 2010 Public Library Survey Results Announced

Jan 22, 2013

Libraries doing more with less – Local government taking larger funding role Read More

Call for Existing Research on Arts Programs

Jan 15, 2013

IMLS joins Arts Education Partnership to expand body of evidence on the role of Arts Education Programs in America’s museums and libraries. Read More

Registration Opens for WebWise 2013

Jan 15, 2013

Registration is now open for the Institute of Museum and Library Services’ (IMLS) WebWise Conference, which will take place March 6-8 at the Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace in Baltimore, MD. Read More

IMLS Awards $250,000 to the Northeast Document Conservation Center for a System to Digitize Audio Recordings from Obsolete Formats

Jan 10, 2013

A grant of $250,000 from the Institute of Museum and Library Services to the Northeast Document Conservation Center (NEDCC) will help them provide for first time a much needed service to museums, libraries, and archives around the country. They will use new technologies to convert audio recordings from obsolete formats, such as wax cylinders and records, to new digital formats. Read More

Maura Marx Selected as IMLS Deputy Director for the Office of Library Services

Jan 03, 2013

IMLS hires digital library expert to fill leadership position. Marx will begin in May 2013. Read More

IMLS Awards $249,999 to the Chicago Public Library Foundation to Create a Maker Space

Dec 20, 2012

The Institute of Museum and Library Services announced today a grant in the amount of $249,999 to the Chicago Public Library Foundation to develop a Maker space. Read More

Call for Applications: 2013 Native American Library Services Grant: Basic Grants

Dec 20, 2012

Applications are now being accepting for the Native American Library Services Basic Grant program. Note that the program’s deadline is now March 1, 2013. Read More

IMLS and the Campaign for Grade-Level Reading Convene Experts

Dec 07, 2012

IMLS and the Campaign held a meeting to begin developing a groundbreaking policy report on the role of museums and libraries in early learning. The publication is planned for April 2013. Read More

Call for Applications: 2013 Native American Library Services Enhancement Grant Program

Dec 06, 2012

Applications are now being accepting for the Native American Library Services Enhancement Grant program. Note that the program’s deadline is now March 1, 2013. Read More

President Obama Appoints Althemese Pemberton Barnes and Vishakha N. Desai to the National Museum and Library Services Board

Dec 05, 2012

IMLS Announces the two newest members of the National Museum and Library Services Board, Althemese Pemberton Barnes and Vishakha N. Desai. Read More

Call for Applications: National Leadership Grants-Libraries

Dec 03, 2012

Applications are now being accepted for the 2013 National Leadership Grants-Libraries. The deadline is February 1, 2013. Read More

Call for Applications: 2013 Sparks! Ignition Grants for Libraries and Museums

Nov 29, 2012

Applications are now being accepted for the 2013 Sparks! Ignition Grants for Libraries and Museums. The deadline is February 1, 2013. Read More

Call for Applications: 2013 National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Awards

Nov 28, 2012

Applications are now being accepted for the 2013 National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Awards. The deadline is February 4, 2013. Read More

President Obama Appoints Eight New Board Members to the National Museum and Library Services Board

Nov 16, 2012

Yesterday in a ceremony at the Supreme Court, Associate Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg administered the oath of office, officially swearing in eight new members of the National Museum and Library Services Board appointed by President Barack Obama. Read More

Collections and Buildings Damage Assessments Available for Museums in Federal Declared Disaster Areas

Nov 16, 2012

IMLS and Heritage Preservation are working together to assist museums impacted by Hurricane Sandy by offering damage assessments through the Conservation Assessment Program. Read More

National Medal for Museum and Library Service to be Conferred Today

Nov 14, 2012

White House celebration recognizes exceptional contributions of 10 museums and libraries. Read More

New Grants Help Museums and Libraries Connect Youth with Friends, Learning, and Mentors to Link their Passions to Future Success

Nov 08, 2012

Learning Labs Foster Creativity and Collaboration through Creation in STEM and Beyond. Read More

National Museum and Library Services Board to Meet on November 15

Nov 07, 2012

The board will explore the roles of libraries and museum in early learning. Read More

Institute of Museum and Library Services Announces Recipients of 2012 National Medal for Museum and Library Service

Nov 05, 2012

IMLS congratulates the 2012 recipients of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. The ten institutions provide exceptional service to their communities. Read More

Call for Applications: Museum Grants for African American History and Culture

Nov 02, 2012

IMLS is accepting applications for the Museums for African American History and Culture grant program. The program’s new deadline is January 15, 2013. Read More

Call for Applications: Native American/Native Hawaiian Museum Services Program

Oct 17, 2012

IMLS is accepting applications for the Native American/Native Hawaiian Museum Services grant program. The program’s new deadline is January 15, 2013. Read More

Call for Applications: FY 2013 Museums for America and National Leadership Grants for Museums

Oct 16, 2012

IMLS announces new guidelines and a new deadline for the nation’s largest museum grant programs. Read More

IMLS Awards ALA Grant to Advance Library-Led Community Engagement

Oct 09, 2012

The Promise of Libraries Transforming Communities partners ALA with the Harwood Institute for phase one planning. Read More

Museum Assessment Program Announces 2012 Participants

Oct 04, 2012

One hundred and twenty-six museums in 39 states have been selected to participate in the Museum Assessment Program (MAP) during 2012. The initiative, which is funded by IMLS and administered by the American Alliance of Museums, promotes professional practices in museums and the field. Read More

2013 National Medal Nominations Are Due October 15

Oct 02, 2012

Accelerated deadline to accommodate spring ceremony. Read More

IMLS Announces $2.5 Million to Support Early Learning

Sep 27, 2012

Museums and libraries will address school readiness and summer reading loss. Read More

Grant Awards Announcement: National Leadership Grants

Sep 20, 2012

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) today announced 52 National Leadership Grants totaling $12,065,054. The institutions receiving the awards are matching them with $9,759,281 in non-federal funds. IMLS received 211 applications requesting $47,635,924. Read More

Grant Awards Announcement: 21st Century Museum Professionals

Sep 20, 2012

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) today announced nine 21st Century Museum Professionals grants totaling $1,968,346. The recipients are matching their grants with a total of $2,277,018 in non-federal funds. IMLS received 68 applications requesting $11,630,873. Read More

Grant Awards Announcement: Native American Library Services Enhancement Grants

Sep 20, 2012

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) today announced 14 Native American Library Services Enhancement Grants totaling $1,644,268. IMLS received 47 applications requesting $6,306,472. Read More

Grant Awards Announcement: Connecting to Collections Statewide Implementation Grants

Sep 20, 2012

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) today announced eight Connecting to Collections Statewide Implementation Grants totaling $1,775,638. IMLS received 14 applications requesting $2,937,713. Read More

IMLS Award to the Public Library Association will Develop Online Digital Literacy Resource

Sep 14, 2012

Lack of digital skills impacts the lives millions of Americans. This new resource will provide free high quality tools and training. Read More

IMLS Awards $250,000 to the Digital Public Library of America for Digital Hubs Pilot Program

Sep 13, 2012

The project will take the first steps to bring together existing U.S. digital library infrastructure into a sustainable national digital library system. Read More

IMLS Awards Grant to Engage Libraries in US Ignite

Sep 12, 2012

Graduate School of Library and Information Science at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign will explore how libraries can adopt and use next-generation internet. Read More

Grant Awards Announcement: Native American/Native Hawaiian Museum Services Program

Sep 05, 2012

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) today announced 22 awards totaling $925,687 matched with $625,932 of non-federal funds for Native American/Native Hawaiian Museum Services Program Grants. IMLS received 36 applications requesting $1,686,001 in funds. Read More

Grant Awards Announcement: Native Hawaiian Library Services Grants

Aug 21, 2012

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) announced today three awards totaling $552,000 for Native Hawaiian Library Services. Read More

Grant Awards Announcement: African American History and Culture

Jul 31, 2012

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) announced today 14 awards totaling $1,442,312, matched with $1,903,034 of non-federal funds for Museum Grants for African American History and Culture. IMLS received 41 applications requesting $4,277,160 in funds. Read More

Grant Awards Announcement: Sparks! Ignition Grants

Jul 26, 2012

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) today announced 13 awards totaling $304,866 matched with $174,266 of non-federal funds for Sparks! Ignition Grants. IMLS received 69 applications requesting nearly $1.8 million. Read More

Grant Awards Announcement: Museums for America

Jul 19, 2012

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) announced today 152 awards totaling $18,113,376 matched with $34,666,759 of non-federal funds for Museums for America Program Grants. IMLS received 470 applications requesting $52,296,907. Read More

Call for Applications: Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program

Jul 17, 2012

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is accepting applications in the following grant program: Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program; Deadline: September 17, 2012 Read More

Draft Survey for Museums Count Submitted to the Office of Management and Budget for Review

Jul 06, 2012

Museums Count to be the first national, Web-based census of the museum field. Read More

IMLS Announces Grant to Identify Library E-Book Strategies

Jun 22, 2012

The rise of e-books is one of the most important developments in public libraries in this decade. Read More

IMLS to Hold Next 21st Century Skills Workshop at the Miami-Dade Public Library

Dec 06, 2010

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) has announced that it will hold a workshop on December 8, 2010, at the Miami-Dade Public Library as part of a national campaign aimed at engaging museums, libraries, and civic leaders in meeting the 21st century learning needs of their communities. IMLS is co-hosting the event with the Miami-Dade Public Library System and the Wolfsonian-Florida International University. Read More

IMLS Holds 21st Century Skills Workshop at the San Francisco Public Library

Nov 04, 2010

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is holding a workshop at the San Francisco Public Library on November 4 as part of a national campaign aimed at engaging museums, libraries, and civic leaders in meeting the 21st century learning needs of their communities. Additional hosts include the Exploratorium and the San Francisco Arts Commission. Read More

IMLS Podcast Provides Plain Language Facts about 21st Century Skills

Aug 11, 2010

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) proudly announces release of a podcast on 21st century skills by IMLS Acting Director Marsha L. Semmel. Read More

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Blog: Pilot Project Serves Free Summer Lunch to Kids in Libraries

Eating summer lunch at the Elmhurst Branch of the Oakland Public Library.

Jun 17, 2013

In conjunction with summer reading programs, the “Summer Lunch at the Library” program will serve free healthy lunches in public libraries throughout California to keep kids’ bellies and minds nourished. Read More

Blog: AAHC Forum: Collections Management Initiatives: Big Things Are Happening at the Harvey B. Gantt Center

Jun 13, 2013

Using IMLS funding, the Gantt Center hired a collections management consultant to improve inventory, collection management software, conservation, disaster recovery, and digital planning. Read More

Blog Post: Food Revolution Day Pittsburgh

Chef Stephanie Gelberd shares her recipe for baked tortilla chips as part of her cooking demonstration.

Jun 10, 2013

The Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens took part in Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution Day with healthy cooking demonstrations and a walking challenge. Read More

Blog Post: From Maker Fairs to Meet-Ups, Museums and Libraries Enjoy Hacking Celebration

Participants at the National Day of Civic Hacking

Jun 07, 2013

IMLS joined other federal agencies to provide data and challenges for civic hackers in the first ever National Day of Civic Hacking. Read More

Blog Post: Every Library and Museum in America, Mapped

Jun 07, 2013

Have you ever wondered how many libraries and museums there are in America? There are probably far more of both than you think. Read More

Blog Post: Let's Move! Family Day

Jun 03, 2013

Children, parents, and grandparents joined staff at the University of Mississippi Museum for a day of hiking, healthy eating, and activities as the woods came to life for them through art. Read More

Blog Post: A Mississippi Gulf Coast Album

May 31, 2013

An IMLS grant to the Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Archives helped complete the preservation and captioning of the premiere photographic collections of South Mississippi that survived Hurricane Katrina. Read More

AAHC Forum: Field Trips Are for Interns Too!

History Keepers interns and supervisors on the first field trip.

May 30, 2013

Interns at the Prince George’s African American Museum and Cultural Center go on field trips to learn about history, culture, and career opportunities in the museum field. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: The Gathering Place Project-Training and Sustaining in North Carolina

Students at Fayetteville State University

May 23, 2013

An IMLS Grant helped create the Gathering Place Project in North Carolina, a program that will provide statewide assistance to grow best practices in African American museum spaces. Read More

Blog Post: Calling All Hackers!

May 22, 2013

IMLS will be a part of the first ever National Day of Civic Hacking, June 1 and 2. Find out how you can get involved. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: Improving Education and Collections

Dion Brown and James McWilliams examine a piece in the museum’s collection.

May 16, 2013

An IMLS grant helps the B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center provide education resources to local schools and implement a permanent cataloguing system. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: Facility Extention Connects Past to Present

May 16, 2013

A new wing of the Weeksville Heritage Center will allow for expanded programing while connecting to a permanent exhibit in the original structure. Read More

AAHC Forum: Preserving History and Culture at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

May 09, 2013

A former historical interpreter and re-enactor describes how his role preserving history has changed now that he serves as program manager of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. Read More

AAHC Forum: Succession Plan Plays Key Role in Museum Merger

May 09, 2013

Succession planning and leadership development helps the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and the Cincinnati Museum Center merge. Read More

Blog Post: A Thing of Beauty by Luisa Banchoff

May 08, 2013

IMLS salutes the country’s first National Student Poets. Today’s featured poet is Luisa Banchoff of Arlington, Va. Read More

Blog Post: Meeting the Needs of 21st Century Teens

May 03, 2013

The Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA) Summit on Libraries & Teens was the first conversation point in a yearlong National Forum that continues with a virtual town hall meeting on May 21. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: Database and Inventory Completion Contribute to AWC’s Momentum

May 02, 2013

A brand new collections database focuses on improving preservation practices. Read More

Blog Post: Lessons In Fifths By Lylla Younes

May 01, 2013

IMLS salutes the country’s first National Student Poets. Today’s featured poet is Lylla Younes from Alexandria, La. Read More

Blog Post: Looking for Research Data Stories?

Apr 30, 2013

Purdue University Libraries launched the Data Curation Profiles Directory, a new tool for library and information science professionals, archivists, IT professionals, and others working on data curation. Read More

Blog Post: Library Helps Local Businesses

Workforce development and library partners.

Apr 26, 2013

The Howell Carnegie Library in Michigan used the power of partnerships to expand their workforce development services. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: Former Journalist Reviving Lost History, Culture at The Kansas African American Museum

Apr 25, 2013

Journalist turned museum director connects Kansans to their state’s historical DNA. Read More

Blog Post: Orpheus by Miles Hewitt

To mark National Poetry Month, IMLS salutes the country’s first National Student Poets. Today’s featured poet is Miles Hewitt from Vancouver, Wash. Read More

Blog Post: Piggy Bank Tales: Teaching Children how to Manage Money

Apr 24, 2013

Piggy Bank Tales uses the trust that participants have in their librarian to start a dialogue between the adult and child concerning money. Read More

Blog Post: HELP Advance: Supporting the Small Museum

Apr 23, 2013

The Hands-on Experiential Learning Project (HELP) is a professional development training program that addresses the specific needs of small and mid-size museum professionals. Read More

Blog Post: Uncovering the Hidden Reproductive Lives of Salamanders

Apr 22, 2013

For Earth Day, IMLS presents blogs by two scientists who are working on an IMLS-funded project to save salamanders that are in danger of extinction worldwide. Read More

Blog Post: Saving Salamanders with Science

Apr 22, 2013

For Earth Day, IMLS presents blogs by two scientists who are working on an IMLS-funded project to save salamanders that are in danger of extinction worldwide. Read More

Blog Post: Connecting Worlds Through Internet and Imagination

Apr 19, 2013

In this video, library director Paul Paladino and community member Jaimy Fulbright talk about how the Naturita Community Library brings people together in this small town and continues to grow with the community. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: Conservation Assessment Program Helps Revitalize the I.P. Stanback Museum and Planetarium

Apr 18, 2013

Museum puts CAP recommendations into action. Read More

Blog Post: Laws of Thermodynamics by Claire Lee

Apr 17, 2013

To mark National Poetry Month, IMLS salutes the country’s first National Student Poets. Today’s featured poet is Claire Lee, from New York, N.Y. Read More

Blog Post: Library of Congress Naturalization Ceremony and New Partnership with USCIS

IMLS Director Susan Hildreth addresses the new citizens.

Apr 16, 2013

At a Library of Congress Naturalization Ceremony, IMLS and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced a partnership to encourage collaboration between citizen and immigration services and public libraries. Read More

Blog Post: Libraries and Museums Bring Communities Together During Difficult Times

Apr 16, 2013

Statement from Director Susan Hildreth on Boston. Read More

Blog Post: Get Involved: Powered By Your Library

Apr 12, 2013

The California State Library launched a statewide initiative to expand the visibility and contributions of skilled volunteers in public libraries. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: Navigating the Bumps: Coping with Personnel Changes in “Mid-Grant”

Apr 11, 2013

The Kansas African American Museum shares valuable lessons about staff recruitment and retention. Read More

Blog Post: Change is What This Library Does Best

Apr 10, 2013

In this video, Shaler North Hills Library director Sharon McRae and community member Janet Miller talk about how the library adapts their programming to meet the changing needs of the community. Read More

Blog Post: Museums and Libraries Making a Difference: Hundreds of Stories Shared on IMLS Facebook Page

Apr 04, 2013

Director Hildreth recaps IMLS’s first year celebrating finalists for the National Medal for Museum and Library Services and the Share Your Story initiative. Read More

Blog: AAHC Forum: Life as a MP: Museum Professionals Saturday Exploratory Series Presented by the Hampton University Museum

Student working with an African American mask.

Apr 04, 2013

An IMLS Grant to the Hampton University Museum helped create hands-on, interactive workshops to expose high school students to a wide array of careers within the museum and archival fields. Read More

Blog Post: The Power of Nature in Garfield Park

Apr 03, 2013

In this video, community member Tiara Livingston and Director Eunita Rushing discuss how teen programs at the Garfield Park Conservatory inspires and educates youth in the community. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: Amistad and Haitian Agencies Discuss Exhibition

Mar 28, 2013

Haiti’s Presidential Advisory Commission for Economic Growth and Investment are in talks with the Amistad Research Center with hopes to make Amistad’s artwork available for Haitian academic researchers and public exhibition in Haiti. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: Collection Reorganization Makes Art Borrowing Easier

Mar 28, 2013

A reorganized art collection and borrowing system prepares the Amistad Research Center for general access and future exhibitions. Read More

Blog Post: Caring about Kindergarten at the Long Island Children’s Museum

Mar 27, 2013

A bilingual summer program at the Long Island Children’s Museum helps children of immigrant families prepare for kindergarten. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: Digitized Texas Southern University Collection Draws New Appreciation and Interest

LaStarsha McGarrity working on a mural by Kermit Oliver.

Mar 22, 2013

Immediate access through digital media raises profile of collection that is the cultural fabric of Texas Southern University. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: Texas Southern University Students Help Catalog African American Art

Mar 22, 2013

Work inspires new perspective on collections management and career possibilities. Read More

Blog Post: Everyone On! Libraries Play Essential Role in Connect2Compete Campaign

Mar 21, 2013

A public awareness campaign launches today that will help empower people who aren’t Internet users, to get the training they need to get online. Read More

Blog Post: From Resumes to Robots

Mar 20, 2013

Community member Willie Wright and library director Jody Risacher talk about the Cumberland County Public Library’s programs serve their community, from career development services to science projects for kids. Read More

Blog Post: Community Scientists Wow Museum Visitors

Mar 20, 2013

Museum educators at the Powerhouse Science Center create practical guide to help local scientists build new skills. Read More

Blog Post: Museums as Dinner Table: Dialogues on Immigration

Mar 19, 2013

This spring, participants of the Immigration and Civil Rights Network will discuss immigration issues and work together to bring those dialogues to their museums. Read More

Blog Post: A Teacher’s Reflection on Developing a Model for Technology-Based Museum School Partnerships

Mar 15, 2013

A middle school social studies class in upstate New York teamed up with the educational director at the Minneapolis Institute of the Arts to help students create “digital artifacts” based on the museum’s collection. Read More

Blog Post: A Cooperstown Close-up: Developing a Model for Technology-Based Museum School Partnerships

Mar 15, 2013

By linking up classroom educators and museum educators, the Baseball Hall of Fame has used distance learning to educate kids in geography, economics, math, and civil rights history. Read More

Blog Post: Whose Learning Is It Anyway? (WebWise 2013)

Mar 14, 2013

As everything from report cards to student artwork goes digital, WebWise Keynote speaker Audrey Watters asks “Whose Learning is it Anyway?” Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: Forgotten Communities: Discovering and Recovering Baptisttown

Mar 14, 2013

The Evansville African American Museum worked with high school and college students on oral history projects to collect and preserve the war memories of Baptisttown and Lincoln Gardens residents. Read More

Blog Post: With Digital Technologies, Can School Libraries Help Transform Learning?

Mar 13, 2013

Educators from across the country are using digital technologies to create more opportunities for experiential, hands-on learning. Read More

Blog Post: Getting a Second Chance at 67

Mar 13, 2013

An adult literacy program at the Contra Costa library helped Gladys Leeks, age 67, learn how to read. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: Digital Preservation of Jazz Film Creates a Unique Internship Experience

The John H. Baker Jazz Film Collection exhibition showcases the films in a small theater with four view kiosks.

Mar 07, 2013

As young professionals, interns at the American Jazz Museum gained valuable experience with film preservation and research through work completed during the internship. Read More

Blog Post: The Important Role of Libraries in the Hours After School

Mar 05, 2013

Learning Labs and conferences like the Teens and Libraries Summit showcase how libraries provide expanded learning opportunities for kids after school. Read More

Blog Post: Helping Develop a Visitor-Centered Museum

Mar 04, 2013

This IMLS-funded workshop series focuses on developing skills and knowledge of museum staff to improve the visitor’s experience. Read More

Blog Post: From Snakes to Chemistry, and Everything in Between

Feb 27, 2013

The National Medal for Museum and Library Services is the nation's highest honor for libraries and museums that are serving their communities in exceptional ways. Pacific Science Center President and CEO Brice Seidl and community member Andrea Rose Nichols explain how the museum aims to inspire a lifelong interest in science. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: African American Museum in Philadelphia Fellows Prepare Motown Exhibit

Feb 21, 2013

Graduate fellows at the African American Museum in Philadelphia crafted a compelling historical account of 20th-century African American culture by using archival materials from Motown legend, The Supremes. Read More

Blog Post: Growing a Strong Middle Class

Feb 20, 2013

Libraries and museums are taking leadership roles in their communities and tackling tough problems. Read More

Blog Post: Taking the Challenge Out of Modern Art

Feb 20, 2013

Museum of Contemporary Art director Bonnie Clearwater and community member Kassandra Timothe traveled to Washington from North Miami, FL to receive the national medal and spoke to IMLS about how the museum impacts the community. Read More

Blog Post: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and Best Buy Announce Connect 2 Compete Partnership

Feb 15, 2013

Launch of digital literacy training initiative will reach residents of public housing. Read More

Blog Post: Project ENABLE Launches Training Website to Better Serve Students with Disabilities

Feb 15, 2013

Librarians and other educators can freely access high quality, comprehensive, train-the-trainer continuing education program. Read More

Blog Post: WebWise Workshops and Descriptions Now Available

Feb 15, 2013

Based on the outcome of participant feedback, we are announcing the WebWise workshops for this year’s conference. Read More

Blog Post: Teens, Children and Community are a Winning Combination

Feb 13, 2013

Bootheel Youth Museum director Patsy Reublin and community member Lauren Collins, talk about helping kids learn about math and science and winning the National Medal for Museum Library Services. Read More

Blog Post: Out-of-School Takes Center Stage

Feb 13, 2013

New resource highlights the positive outcomes of learning after school and during the summer. Read More

Blog Post: Learning Space Toolkit: A Resource for Designing and Sustaining Technology-Rich Informal Learning Spaces

Feb 08, 2013

National Leadership Grantees launch the Learning Space Toolkit -- a freely available resource designed to support the full lifecycle of a learning space design project, from defining the goals and needs to designing the space to supporting it. Read More

Blog Post: Places to Play in New Orleans

The Louisiana Children's Museum, a Let’s Move! museum, helped four-year olds share the spotlight as New Orleans kicked off kick off Super Bowl festivities. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: Informal Networks Can Be the Key to Your Success: Don’t Hesitate to Ask for Help

Kathe-Hambrick Jackson, President of AAAM, and Former President Lawrence Pijeaux at the White House. Photo Credit: Kathe Hambrick-Jackson, Dec 2010.

Feb 07, 2013

Kathe Hambrick-Jackson, founder and director of the River Road African American Museum, explains how partnerships and collaborations within the museum community helped in the staff development project. Read More

Blog Post: Tell Us About Your Project Ideas!

Feb 07, 2013

Want to know how to turn your partnership and programs dreams into reality? The first step for WebWise participants is a survey. Read More

Blog Post: Announcing the Director’s Choice Workshop for WebWise 2013: “Designing Prize Competitions”

Feb 05, 2013

WebWise will be offering an additional Director’s Choice workshop titled Designing Prize Competitions led by Jenn Gustetic, NASA’s Prizes and Challenges Program Executive. Read More

Blog Post: Director Hildreth Signs "Declaration of Learning"

SIgning of the Declaration of Learning Jan 2013

Feb 01, 2013

IMLS joined other agencies and service organizations for a ceremony at the U.S. State Department to celebrate a "Declaration of Learning." Read More

Blog Post: Spotlight on Project Demonstrations: 21-Tech and the Children’s Museum of Houston

Feb 01, 2013

WebWise 2013 will feature nine project demonstrations that embrace the strategic goals of IMLS. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: Gaining Knowledge through Research and Role Models

Keila Dumas places the finishing touch on a display for Tuskegee Airman, Roy Spencer. Photo courtesy of the Meek-Eaton Black Archives.

Jan 31, 2013

Undergraduate student, Keila Dumas, felt a sense of connection--to artifacts, faculty, visitors, and other fellows--during her experience as an I AMM fellow at the Carrie Meek-James Eaton Black Archives Research Center and Museum. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: CURE-ating: A Doctorial Pursuit

I AMM Fellow Anthony Thompson browses archival material. Photo courtesy of the Meek-Eaton Black Archives

Jan 31, 2013

As an I AMM fellow at Florida A & M University graduate student Anthony T. Thompson gained hands-on archival experience in visitor services, public programming, and exhibit development, and it helped him become a better researcher, as he pursued his studies in history. Read More

Blog Post: Hatch Your Project Ideas at the Project/Partnership Incubator Session

Jan 29, 2013

The Project/Partnership Incubator sessions for WebWise 2013 will offer attendees the chance to incubate project and collaboration ideas for pursuing funding opportunities. Read More

Blog Post: Share Your Project: Lunchtime Lightning Talks

Jan 25, 2013

WebWise participants have the opportunity to sign up for "Lightning Talks" to share the lessons learned, goals, and achievements of their institution’s digital projects. Read More

Blog Post: A More Powerful School Library Catalogue

Jan 25, 2013

The Digital Libraries to School Libraries (DL2SL) project launches its updated digital resource cataloging tool, Web2MARC. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: Discovering History: Lessons to Treasure

I AMM Fellow Lorraine Rossi unpacks a leather jacket that will be used for a Black Panther display.

Jan 24, 2013

A graduate student and archivist hopeful develops her skills in the museum field thanks to the I AMM project at Florida A&M University. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: Reflections of an I AMM Fellow: Marketing Meets the Museum

I AMM Fellow Brad Miller chats with a group of teenage visitors.

Jan 24, 2013

A native Bahamian discovers African American History and develops business skills through the I AMM project at Florida A&M University. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: Recruiting, Training and Mentoring Future Generations of Museum Professionals

I AAM fellows on a facilities and space utilization site visit to the FAMU/FSU College of Engineering.

Jan 24, 2013

An IMLS grant helped the Black Archives at Florida A&M University start the Inspiring Authorities in Museum Management (I AMM) project to help recruit, train and mentor graduate students. Read More

Blog Post: Choose Your Own Adventure: Workshops @ WebWise

Jan 23, 2013

Through the use of an online tool called IdeaScale, participants will have an opportunity to help shape the WebWise 2013 conference agenda by submitting workshop topics, voting on existing topics, or adding comments. Read More

Blog Post: New Report Shows Trends in U.S. Library Service

Report Cover for the FY2010 Public Library Survey

Jan 22, 2013

Circulation, public programs and digital services on the rise. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: AAHC Forum: How a South Carolina State University Accounting Major Found a Passion for Museum Work

Davion and the Gregori family securing a collection of African Art for the I.P Stanback Museum and Planetarium

Jan 17, 2013

Through his internship at the I.P. Stanback Museum and Planetarium, Davion Petty found a passion for museum work by helping secure a collection of African Art. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: The I.P. Stanback Museum and Planetarium: Creating Life-Changing Opportunities for Students

Interns and Director receiving 2011 Governor’s Award for the Humanities

Jan 17, 2013

A grant from IMLS provides students at South Carolina State University with internship opportunities and participation in national museum conferences. Read More

Blog Post: Libraries and Museums Bring Communities Together to Celebrate Two Historic American Traditions

Jan 16, 2013

This year two historic events will fall on the same day. Join museums and libraries across the country as we celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day and the 57th presidential inauguration. Read More

Blog Post: WebWise 2013: And Now for Something Completely Different

Jan 16, 2013

WebWise 2013 unveils a new interactive format that gives everyone more opportunities to learn and collaborate. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: Rebuilding the Museum, One Person at a Time

Visitors at the National Civil Rights Museum

Jan 10, 2013

IMLS-supported professional development sessions at the National Civil Rights Museum help staff to develop new and innovative programs and exhibits. The museum is preparing for the grand reopening of their main building, the historic Lorraine Motel, assassination site of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Read More

Blog Post: Makers on the Move in Libraries and Museums

photo of a boy using tools at Maker Faire

Dec 20, 2012

Maker spaces are part of a growing movement of hands-on, mentor-led environments that encourage entrepreneurship and unleash the inner inventor in all of us, particularly children. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: Museums Challenged to Serve – Beyond Borders

Florida African American Heritage Preservation Network Training Session.

Dec 20, 2012

John G. Riley Museum Founder & Executive Director, Althemese Barnes, explains how she founded the Florida African American Heritage Preservation Network (FAAHPN) to reach out to museums in the African American museum community. Read More

Blog Post: From the Bench: Team Pachacamac Triumphs, Making Peruvian Collections Accessible

Post-graduate fellows Ainslie Harrison (left) and Fran Baas (right).

Dec 19, 2012

Two recent conservation graduates assembled and oversaw a large cadre of volunteers, work-study students, and pre-program interns to survey, relocate, and create customized storage solutions for a 3,600 object collection. They also treated 60 of the artifacts and created a 10,000-image online database for use by researchers near and far. Read More

Blog Post: From the Bench: A 400-Year-Old Carpet is Restored to Show Original Persian Artistry

Large Persian rug in lab for conservation treatment

Dec 19, 2012

The Frick Collection stabilized a beloved carpet that had been on display for nearly one hundred years with the help of IMLS funding. Read More

Blog Post: From the Bench: Trellised Garden with Animals on View at Memorial Art Gallery Thanks to Tapestry Initiative

Pannemaker installation process in April 2012

Dec 19, 2012

A European Tapestry Initiative begun in 2009 enables treatment and display of popular Medieval and Renaissance tapestries, such as Trellised Garden with Animals and Battle of the Animals. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: Leadership Succession Planning at the John G. Riley Center/Museum Places Baton in the hands of the Next Generation

Marion McGee & Althemese Barnes pictured in front of the John Gilmore Riley Historic House Museum in Tallahassee, Florida.

Dec 13, 2012

Marion McGee, Assistant Director at the John Gilmore Riley Center/Museum of African American History & Culture, explains how the executive apprenticeship under Founder & Executive Director Althemese Barnes has prepared the museum for new leadership. Read More

Blog Post: From the Bench: Upgrade of American Sculpture and Decorative Arts Storage

Dec 11, 2012

With support from IMLS, the Detroit Institute of Arts upgraded storage for its American decorative arts and sculpture collections dating from the beginning of the European settlements until 1950. Read More

Blog Post: From the Bench: Preservation Project Protects 65 Million-Year-Old Fossilized Leaves for Scientific Study

Dec 11, 2012

The Denver Museum of Nature & Science is rehousing beautiful, ancient fossil leaf specimens from Denver Basin excavations to protect them from physical and water damage. Read More

Blog Post: Things are Going SWIM-ingly Out West

The 38 members of the first SWIM class to receive library degrees from the University of North Texas.

Dec 07, 2012

Through careful use of funds, Montana State Library partnering with state library agencies in South Dakota, Wyoming, Idaho and the University of North Texas, has been able to provide 54 individuals with Master’s in Library Science degrees and 16 with School Library Media endorsements since 2009. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: An Eight-Month Internship Commitment Turned into Three Years of Excellent Experience

An interactive Chieko completed for After Hours.

Dec 06, 2012

Curatorial assistant Chieko Phillips describes how the curatorial internship at the Northwest African American Museum helped prepare her for a career in the museum field. Read More

Blog Post: Digital Public Library of America Hosts its First Appfest

The 4th Floor at Chattanooga Public Library.

Dec 05, 2012

Diverse teams of coders, metadata specialists, designers, “idea people,” librarians, and user-experience professionals gathered at the DPLA Appfest to develop web and mobile apps and other compelling projects. Read More

Blog Post: From the Bench: Conservators Save Colonial-Era Artifacts from Corrosion

The recreated settlement at Wolstenholme Town.

Dec 04, 2012

Artifacts from a 1618 Virginia settlement receive conservation treatment for the second time since their discovery in 1976. Read More

Blog Post: National Leadership Grant Video: Rochester Institute of Technology Preserving Inkjet Prints

Nov 30, 2012

IMLS-funded research shows that inkjet prints are susceptible to damage from airborne pollutants. Senior Research Scientist Daniel Burge describes measures that can be taken to mitigate the damage. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: The Development of MoCADA’s Curatorial Fellowship

Nov 29, 2012

With the help of an IMLS grant the Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Arts’ Curatorial Fellowship program helps train young museum professionals. Read More

Blog Post: From the Bench: The Peabody Museum Maps 140 Years of Anthropology Fieldwork

Researchers study original sketches of Las Monjas ruins at Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico.

Nov 27, 2012

Thanks to an IMLS grant, Harvard University’s Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology can now share more of its broad-ranging Map Collection with researchers. Read More

Blog Post: From the Bench: New Storage Safeguards Newark Museum’s Jewelry and African Art Collections

Jewelry Technician Sara Parmigiani with Jewelry Storage.

Nov 27, 2012

With the help of IMLS, the Newark Museum has slowly changed its collection storage to best protect important collections and let curators and researchers easily see the safely stored objects within it. Read More

Blog Post: Conservation Effort Opens View of Tiffany Window Designs

An IMLS grant to investigate, treat, and rehouse Tiffany drawings is making them accessible to the public and shedding new light on the process of designing stained glass windows. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: Pacific Northwest Provides Professional Development for African American Museum Professionals

Nov 15, 2012

A grant from IMLS permitted the Northwest African American Museum to expand the curatorial capacity of its exhibits department by providing internships and skill-building workshops for young museum professionals in the field of African American history and culture. Read More

Blog Post: From the Bench: These Face Lifts Require Heavy Lifting

Temporary lab for giant totem poles in the exhibition gallery

The American Museum of Natural History is conserving its longstanding totem poles with help from an IMLS grant. Read More

Blog Post: From the Bench: Preserving Civil War Artifacts in Cape Fear

An IMLS grant helped preserve two flags and a dress uniform from the Civil War at the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science. Read More

Blog Post: Honoring and Serving Those Who Serve

In honor of Veterans Day, Director Hildreth thanks military personnel for their service to our county and highlights museums and libraries that provide opportunities and programs to support our veterans. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: The Sustainability and Growth of the Margaret Walker Center

Nov 08, 2012

Members of the Margaret Walker Center create a strategic plan to revamp their museum and archive for the historic collections at Jackson State. Read More

Blog Post: Raising the Bar: Receiving a Scholarship to Attend the ARSL Conference and the Power of a Free Iced Tea

Nov 07, 2012

The Duplin County Library partnered with a local small business to raise awareness for the library. Read More

Blog Post: Libraries and Museums Respond to Superstorm Sandy

Throughout the impacted region libraries and museums play important roles in recovery efforts. Read More

Blog Post: From the Bench: Conservator of All I Survey

Consultants Rob Waller (left) and Cathy Hawks (right) meet with Invertebrate Zoology Collections Manager Albert Kollar (center).

The Carnegie Museum of Natural History’s sole conservator conducted a general survey with the help of a team of consultants. In the process she gained a better understanding of the museum’s large collections and created a long-term plan for conservation. Read More

Blog Post: From the Bench: Seattle Art Museum’s Delicate Asian Screens Rehoused for Access and Preservation

Delicate Asian screens get new storage cabinets with sliding shelves to ensure safe long-term care as well as ease of access for research at the Seattle Art Museum. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: Curatorial Fellowship at the Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Arts Paves the Way for Young Curators

Artists gather around an exhibit at MoCADA.

Nov 01, 2012

Curatorial Fellow Jessica Lanay Moore explains the rewards and opportunities of the MoCADA program. Read More

Blog Post: From the Bench: Preservation of Art Objects Helps Restore Historic Halls to Past Splendor

Side chair upholstered in 18th-century painted and gilded leather.

Nov 01, 2012

The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum used IMLS funding to conserve several art objects, including a marble sculpture and leather side chairs, as part of a major capital preservation project to restore their Titian Room and the Tapestry Room galleries. Read More

Blog Post: From the Bench: Making Things Amber Clear

Nov 01, 2012

The American Museum of Natural History is using IMLS funding to preserve its massive collection of life forms in amber, making work easier for researchers now and in the future. Read More

Blog Post: Grants to University of Michigan Help Answer Questions of Copyright

Oct 26, 2012

The Copyright Office at the University of Michigan Library is working on IMLS-funded projects that will determine the copyright status of nearly 450,000 English-language books that are a part of the HathiTrust Digital Library. Read More

Blog Post: AAHC Forum: Join the National Online Forum on African American History and Culture Grant Program

IMLS grantees pose for a photo in the Museum Grants for African American History and Culture.

Oct 25, 2012

IMLS to launch new social media effort to identify strategies to support African American Museums and HBCU’s. Read More

Blog Post: From the Bench: A Collaborative Survey Shines Fresh Light on Korean Paintings

Visiting conservators discuss a Korean painting

Oct 23, 2012

The Asian Art Museum brought in consultants from the Seoul, Korea, to collaborate with a team of experts about their rare Korean paintings. Read More

Blog Post: From the Bench: Rehoused Instrument Collection Is Once Again Instrumental

Oct 23, 2012

An IMLS-grant to unpack and rehouse a scientific instrument collection, enabled the Peabody Museum to create an online inventory of the entire collection. Read More

Blog Post: Libraries and Museums as Afterschool Allies

Oct 18, 2012

Public libraries are undergoing a 21st century makeover, evolving into destinations for hands-on, collaborative and informal learning. With their museum and community partners they are taking a more active role in supporting children's learning and development in the hours after school. Read More

Blog Post: Looking Ahead

Oct 17, 2012

Director Hildreth identifies five strategies for museums and libraries that are making a difference in their communities. Read More

Blog Post: From the Bench: New Discoveries from What Lies Beneath

photo of two women looking at a painting in low light

Oct 16, 2012

Using x-ray, x-radiograph, and other technologies, a painting conservator hired by the Shelburne Museum made discoveries about a number of the museum’s paintings. Read More

Blog Post: From the Bench: Literally Hanging by a Thread

Oct 09, 2012

A grant from IMLS permitted the Walters Art Museum to create a plan of action to care for a collection of Southeast Asian works of art and to safely relocate the majority of them into accessible, conservation-quality storage environments. Read More

Blog Post: From the Bench: New Blog Series Highlights the Work of Conservators

Oct 04, 2012

Part scientist, part detective, conservators help to protect and preserve objects that have great power to connect us to science, history, art, nature and culture. Read More

Blog Post: National Students Poets Program Debuts at National Book Festival

Susan Hildreth, Virginia McEnerney, Natalie Richardson, and Margo Lion

Sep 28, 2012

This past weekend, we had the opportunity to attend the 2012 Library of Congress National Book Festival with thousands of book lovers, poets, and authors, celebrating books that have shaped America. The new National Student Poets Program debuted at the National Book Festival with five outstanding high school poets. Read More

Blog Post: National Leadership Grant Video: San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts’ Center for Creative Energy

Sep 26, 2012

The San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts has partnered with the Upper Colorado River Authority and the local school district to help students learn about water issues at the same time as they learn about art. Read More

Blog Post: Role of Libraries and Workforce Development Highlighted in Washington D.C. Briefing

Linda Carlisle, Kevin Perez , Amanda Ahlstrand, Mary Ellen Firestone, Susan Hildreth, and Jane Brady.

Sep 21, 2012

Libraries and the Workforce System are working together to deliver services more effectively. Read More

Blog Post: Searching for the Hidden Structures of Serifs, Mathematician Finds New Career Path

Sep 19, 2012

James P. Ascher describes his journey from mathematician to rare books professor with the help of an IMLS Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian grant. Read More

Blog Post: Maryland’s iSchool to Launch Survey and Online Community for School District Library Supervisors

Sep 17, 2012

The University of Maryland iSchool is using a Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian grant to examine the under-researched position of school library supervisor. Read More

Blog Post: How bad is it? Researchers Identify Common Digitization Blunders

Sep 13, 2012

Researchers use a severity score to help assess when a “my bad” is worrisome enough to impact readability and content. Read More

Blog Post: Databib is Tackling Tough Data Sharing Problems

Sep 07, 2012

A new approach to sharing research will make it easier to find and use data. Five hundred repositories to be cataloged by year end. Read More

Blog Post: National Leadership Grant Video: Queensborough Community College

Sep 06, 2012

Patricia Lannes and Kitty Bateman describe Queensborough Community College's Cultures & Literacies Through Art for the 21st Century (CALTA21), which builds partnerships between museums and institutions that teach English as a second language as a means of making art museums more accessible to immigrants. Read More

Blog Post: Behind the Scenes: Theater Archives and the Documentation of a Legacy

Sketch of actress Austene Van by costume designer Reggie Ray for Penumbra Theatre Company's production of "Ain't Misbehavin'."

Aug 30, 2012

An IMLS-funded planning project is paving the way for better archiving practices at theaters, particularly theaters of color. Read More

Blog Post: The Last Frontier

Aug 28, 2012

An IMLS program officer visits the Alaska State Library and finds federally funded projects on digital archives, early literacy, and preservation of cultural heritage. Read More

Blog Post: National Leadership Grant Video: Chicago Zoo's Welfare Track

Aug 24, 2012

The Chicago Zoo's Welfare Track project, funded by an IMLS National Leadership Grant, takes a different approach to monitoring the welfare of animals, focusing on causes of wellness in addition to what causes sickness. Read More

Blog Post: Is a Village Post Office Coming to a Library Near You?

Aug 22, 2012

Reductions in local post office hours may provide new opportunities for public libraries. Read More

Blog Post: SafeArchive Promises to Preserve Digital Collections

Aug 17, 2012

The IMLS-funded SafeArchive system automates established replication policies and helps institutions collaborate to preserve digital content. Read More

Blog Post: Eureka! Job Fair in Georgetown County, SC, a Big Success

Aug 15, 2012

Dwight McInvaill, Director of the Georgetown County Library of South Carolina, got to see first-hand the benefits of his library's job fair, part of a project funded by the IMLS Grants to States program. Read More

Blog Post: One Good Thing Leads to Another: Santa Ana Public Library Builds on IMLS Grant

Aug 10, 2012

Receiving a Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Grant from IMLS opened the eyes of the Santa Ana Public Library to other federal funding options, which led to the creation of the Seeds to Trees Digital Media Technology Academy. Read More

Blog Post: Ready for Back-to-School? Begin the Year as a Connected Educator!

Aug 09, 2012

Did you know that August is Connected Educator Month? Find out how the Department of Education is connecting educators of all disciplines and levels collaborate online—it’s not too late to participate! Read More

Blog Post: National Leadership Grant Video: Art Beyond Sight/Museum of Science, Boston

Aug 07, 2012

Art Beyond Sight and the Museum of Science, Boston, are using an IMLS National Leadership Grant to help museums pilot tools for becoming more accessible to people with disabilities. Read More

Blog Post: Early Learning in the Pacific Region

IMLS staff with grantees from three U.S. Pacific Territories

Aug 03, 2012

IMLS went to check in with the Pacific island recipients of Grants to State Library Administrative Agencies and found a wealth of programs to benefit early learners. Read More

Blog Post: National Leadership Grant Video: Yale Peabody's Teacher Collaborative

Jul 27, 2012

David Heiser describes Yale University's Peabody Museum of Natural History's Event-Based Teacher Collaborative, which is funded by a National Leadership Grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Read More

Blog Post: Find a Let’s Move! Olympic Fun Day Near You!

Jul 24, 2012

First Lady Michelle Obama and IMLS Director Susan Hildreth want kids to be inspired by the 2012 Olympic athletes who start competition on Saturday, and to attend one of the many Let's Move! "Olympic Fun Day Meet-ups" being planned for that day. Read More

Blog Post: Museum Program Changes

Jul 23, 2012

More than 100 responses will help guide IMLS museum programs. Read More

Blog Post: 124 Communities Take up the Campaign for Grade Level Reading Challenge

Jul 18, 2012

We know that more than 80 percent of children in poverty are not reading at grade level by the third grade, and many other children are falling behind as well; libraries and museums are taking up the challenge to improve learning outcomes for young children. Read More

Blog Post: Public Libraries, American Job Centers, and Digital Literacy

Connect2Compete: Lee Davenport,Howard Feldstein, Hilda Solis, Julius Genachowski, Susan Hildreth

Jul 18, 2012

Together America’s Public Libraries and America’s Job Centers are teaching digital skills that are essential for job searches and more. Read More

Blog Post: Let’s Read! Let’s Move! Summer Learning Series Launches at US Department of Education

Jul 13, 2012

IMLS Director Susan Hildreth joined Education Secretary Arne Duncan to launch a summer learning series with special celebrities and over 130 students from DC area schools, camps, and youth programs. Read More

Blog Post: Community Anchors in a Time of Crisis

library patrons at the Arlington Public Library

Jul 12, 2012

Libraries provide invaluable service to their communities every day. In a crisis like the recent storm that knocked out power to so many homes, libraries are a lifeline. Read More

Blog Post: National Medal Video: Weippe Public Library and Discovery Center

Jul 10, 2012

Terri Summerfield, director of the Weippe Public Library & Discovery Center in Weippe, ID, sits down with community member Gradi Thomson to discuss how the library has become her family’s home away from home. Read More

Blog Post: National Leadership Grant Video: The Great Ape Heart Project

Jul 05, 2012

Drs. Hayley Murphy and Marietta Dindo explain the Great Ape Heart Project, which is assisting nearly every ape in North America in the fight against heart disease, a significant factor in their morbidity and mortality. Read More

Blog Post: National Medal Video: Brooklyn Museum

Jul 03, 2012

Arnold Lehman, director of the Brooklyn Museum, sits down with visual artist Virginia Ines Vergara to discuss how the museum has helped her build confidence as a teacher and an artist. Read More

The Wing: At Home in an Era of Global Participatory Culture

image of Sikh American youth prepping materials for exhibition

Jul 02, 2012

Beth Takekawa, Executive Director of the Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience, was one of 58 cultural leaders from 31 countries who participated in the IMLS/Salzburg Global Seminar on Libraries, Museums and the Era of Participatory Culture. She shares her reflections on finding kindred spirits and new inspiration. Read More

Blog Post: National Leadership Grant Video: Whitney Museum of American Art

Jun 28, 2012

Danielle I. Linzer, the Whitney Museum of American Art's manager of access and community programs, explains the IMLS-funded study of the impact of teen programs at four contemporary art museums. Read More

Blog Post: National Medal Video: Hill Museum & Manuscript Library

Jun 26, 2012

Father Columba Stewart, director of the Hill Museum & Manuscript Library in Collegeville, MN, sits down with Dr. Getachew Haile to discuss how he became the library’s Cataloguer of Oriental Manuscripts and Curator of the Ethiopian Study Center after fleeing his native Ethiopia. Read More

Blog Post: National Leadership Grant Video: Minnesota Historical Society

Jun 21, 2012

Wendy Jones and Jennifer Sly of the Minnesota Historical Society describe History in our Hands, a project funded by an IMLS National Leadership Grant that will allow school children to better understand the challenges faced by famous Minnesotans throughout history. Read More

Blog Post: “US Ignite” Highlights Library and Museum Potential for High-Speed Broadband Applications

Jun 20, 2012

President Obama Announces an initiative to make cities and towns test-beds for next-generation applications. Read More

Blog Post: National Medal Video: Erie Art Museum

Jun 19, 2012

John L. Vanco, director of the Erie Art Museum, sits down with Victoria Angelo, community member and a refugee from Southern Sudan, to discuss how the museum's Old Songs New Opportunities Project has helped her find employment and opportunities to teach and perform traditional Acholi song and dance. Read More

Blog Post: Children’s Services at Public Libraries: A Port in the Storm

Nov 10, 2011

In a recent analysis of utilization of children’s services at public libraries in the top 100 metropolitan areas, IMLS found that attendance at programs and circulation of children’s materials were lowest in areas with the highest levels of child poverty and children of immigrant parents. Read More

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Featured Project Profile

STEM+M: Boosting Education and Library Participation through Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, and Music

A modest grant let the Gleason Public Library, in Carlisle Massachusetts, put major emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) and Music programs. The Library sponsored 35 science, technology and music programs for all ages, and worked with local schools to incorporate its new seismograph into the curriculum. From stargazing events, to a new science fiction book club, live music on the lawn, and a technology “petting zoo,” the program helped draw in new library user. Read more..

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