Queens Museum Named Finalist for 2021 IMLS National Medal

The Institute of Museum and Library Services announced on March 18, 2020 that the Queens Museum is among 30 finalists for the 2021 National Medal for Museum and Library Service. The Queens Museum is one of three institutions in New York City to be selected as a finalist for this award.

“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. “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.”

The National Medal is the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries that demonstrate significant impact in their communities. For more than 25 years, the award has honored institutions that demonstrate excellence in service to their communities.

“We are grateful to be able to bring together and support one of the hardest hit neighborhoods in New York City during the pandemic,” said Sally Tallant, President and Executive Director of Queens Museum. “Our staff and community partners have been working to ensure that our community has access to exhibitions, educational programs and, together with La Jornada, we have been proud to host a cultural food pantry, which has distributed food and art materials to over 20,000 families since last June. The IMLS has been a steadfast supporter of access and community based programming at the Queens Museum. We are honored to be a finalist for the 2021 IMLS National Medal for Museum and Library Service,  and to be part of a community of institutions who are also doing great things to uplift their neighborhoods at this time.” 

National Medal winners will be announced in late spring. Representatives from winning institutions will be honored for their extraordinary contributions during a virtual National Medal Ceremony this summer.

To see the full list of finalists and learn more about the National Medal, visit the IMLS website.