Santa Ana Public Library a finalist for a national Medal for Service Award

City of Santa Ana, Downtown Orange County Community Advisory: SANTA ANA PUBLIC LIBRARY SELECTED AS FINALIST FOR NATIONAL SERVICE MEDAL

SANTA ANA, CA (February 15, 2013) – The Institute of Museum and Library Services announced yesterday that the Santa Ana Public Library is a finalist for the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. The National Medal is the nation’s highest honor conferred on museums and libraries for service to the community and celebrates institutions that make a difference for individuals, families, and communities. Medal finalists are selected from nationwide nominations of institutions that demonstrate innovative approaches to public service, exceeding the expected levels of community outreach.

Santa Ana’s own public library was nominated for this honor by Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez, in recognition of the library’s many years of creative and dedicated service to the community. The library was among over 100 libraries nominated by communities across the United States. Sixteen libraries are finalists, and five will be chosen to receive the award.

Santa Ana Public Library, since its founding in 1891, has been committed to serving the changing needs of its community. At present, over 120,000 Santa Ana residents utilize its services, finding education, information, and caring attention to their needs within its walls. At the Santa Ana Public Library, adults can learn to use 21st century technology or find a job, children can pursue health and academic growth, and teens can find mentors and meaningful tasks to help them grow to productive adulthood.

We at the library are grateful to Congresswoman Sanchez for her nomination, and to the Federal Institute for Museum and library Services for its recognition of our services to Santa Ana. If you have visited the Santa Ana Public Library, please support us at this exciting time by sharing your story of that visit on the IMLS Facebook page, www.facebook.com/USIMLS.

The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s 123,000 libraries and 17,500 museums. Our mission is to inspire libraries and museums to advance innovation, lifelong learning, and cultural and civic engagement. Our 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 http://www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

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