Monmouth Times

Long Branch, NJ – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) on May 23 congratulated the Long Branch Free Public Library for receiving the 2023 National Medal for Museum and Library Service from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The Institute of Museum and Library Services is an independent agency that serves as the main source of federal support for libraries and museums within the United States. In Fiscal Year 2022, IMLS awarded more than $4.3 million to libraries in New Jersey.

The National Medal is the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries that demonstrate excellence in service to their communities. Since 1996, the award has honored 182 institutions that exemplified extraordinary and innovative approaches to public service. Over the past 29 years, the award has celebrated institutions that are making a difference for individuals, families, and communities.

“I’m proud that the Long Branch Public Library is receiving the prestigious National Medal for Museum and Library Service. The staff and trustees work tirelessly every day to provide exceptional support and service to the community in Long Branch. I congratulate everyone who made this well-deserved award a reality and want to especially thank Senator Booker who supported this well-deserved award,” Pallone said. “Thanks to their dedication, they’ve created an atmosphere conducive to lifelong learning and fostered an environment of growth and support for members of the community. The state of New Jersey has also recognized the value of the Long Branch Library by the awarding them with a grant from the Library Construction Bond Act so that the Long Branch Library can now embark on a major restoration and expansion project.”

“I would like to thank Senator Booker for nominating the Long Branch Free Public Library for this very prestigious award and for his support of our library. The National Medal for Museum and Library Service Award is the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries and we are thrilled that our library is being recognized,” said Mayor John Pallone. “The Long Branch Free Public Library is unique in the services it offers to our diverse community. We offer extensive social services, career development, and assistance to businesses to name a few. With recently being awarded money from the competitive Library Reconstruction Bond Act, we look forward to our services increasing even more.”

“This prestigious award is a testament to the impactful work of the Long Branch Free Public Library staff, volunteers, and trustees who work tirelessly to create a space that fosters lifelong learning and strengthens the social fabric of our community. It underscores the vital role that libraries play in transforming lives and empowering individuals to achieve their full potential,” said Tonya Garcia, Director of the Long Branch Public Library. “With renewed determination, we will continue to serve as a beacon of knowledge, a catalyst for creativity, and a pillar of support for all. We are extremely grateful for this incredible recognition and honored to bring the National Medal of Museum and Library Service home to the great state of New Jersey and the city of Long Branch.”

The Long Branch Free Public Library (LBFPL) has served the Long Branch Community for over 100 years. In 1880, the East Long Branch Reading Room & Library Association built Library Hall on Lower Broadway to provide a place of gathering for the rapidly growing town. By 1916, the East Long Branch Reading Room & Library Association became a Carnegie Library and was turned over to the city as the Long Branch Public Library. On May 23, both the Main Carnegie Library and Elberon Branch remain an essential part of the local community, serving all residents from toddlers to seniors. In April, the Long Branch Free Public Library honored Pallone as a “Library Champion” for his support and dedication to libraries.

Original source can be found here.