The Los Angeles County Library is one of two Southern California institutions that will be honored this summer with a 2023 National Medal for Museum and Library Service.
It will join the Riverside Art Museum among the eight recipients of the nation’s highest honor for museum and library services.
The medals have been presented for the past 29 years by the Washington, D.C.-based Institute of Museum and Library Services to celebrate institutions that are making a difference for individuals, families, and communities.
This year’s recipients were selected from among 30 national finalists “that provide dynamic programming and services that exceed expected levels of service,” Institute Director Crosby Kemper said. “Through their community outreach, these institutions bring about change that touches the lives of individuals and helps communities thrive.
“LA County Library meets the needs of one of the most complex and diverse communities in the nation.”
The Downey-based library system, which was founded in 1912, serves more than 3.4 million residents with 86 branches in cities and unincorporated areas throughout the county and a 15-vehicle mobile fleet.
“It is a profound and humbling honor to be selected as a winner of the 2023 National Medal for Museum and Library Service from among so many vital cultural institutions across the nation,” Library Director Skye Patrick said. “I am proud of our extraordinary team here at LA County Library, who embody outstanding customer service, help make our libraries the welcoming community hubs they are, and routinely inspire residents to learn and grow throughout all stages of their lives.
“We accept this award on behalf of the communities of Los Angeles County that we have the privilege to serve every day by removing barriers to access and increasing equitable opportunities for all.”
The awards are usually presented in August, but no date was announced for this year’s ceremony.
