Nation's Top Museum And Library Awards Are Presented

Mrs. Laura Bush presented the 2006 National Awards for Museum and Library Service to three museums and three libraries at a ceremony at the White House Monday morning. It is the highest honor the nation confers on these institutions for their outstanding contribution to America's communities.

The awards are made annually by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to museums and libraries that have demonstrated a long-term commitment to public service through innovative programs and community partnerships.

The award includes prizes of $10,000 to each recipient and an awards ceremony in the East Room of the White House to help raise public awareness of the good work the institutions are doing in their communities. The ceremony featured individuals from all walks of life whose lives have been changed for the better as a result of the award winning libraries and museums.

"These outstanding museums and libraries exemplify great community service," said Mrs. Laura Bush. "They lead efforts to promote literacy, science education, environmental conservation, and good health. Like many libraries and museums around the country, these six have made themselves indispensable to the communities they serve." View Mrs. Bush's full remarks.

"These award-winning institutions are centers of excellence that connect people to information and ideas," said Dr. Anne-Imelda Radice. View Dr. Radice's full remarks.

Dr. Radice thanked the following for their support of the National Awards celebration: 3M Library Systems, The History Channel, Metal Edge, Inc., and Scholastic. -- www.imls.gov