The Bozeman (Mont.) Public Library, in one of the fastest-growing counties in the nation, was cited for its public outreach efforts, including a portal to 150 community websites and its partnership with the local public radio affiliate. The library also offers such innovative programming as a lecture series in conjunction with Montana State University.
The Free Library of Philadelphia was honored for outstanding community service. IMLS praised its success in “extending outreach, recognizing community needs, developing useful and desired programs, forming community partnerships, and making the [library’s] collections and services welcome, useful, and easily accessible.”
Calling the Pocahontas County (W.Va.) Free Libraries “models for providing library service to rural Americans,” the agency noted their cosponsorship of historic and cultural projects with other community groups. The system also hosts meetings of scouts groups and business associations, and offers blood drives, a preschool playgroup, and afterschool programs.
The recipients, who each receive $10,000, will be honored at a ceremony in Washington, D.C.
Posted October 27, 2003.