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National Medal Finalist

San Diego County Library Named Finalist for 2024 IMLS National Medal

San Diego County Library (SDCL) is among 30 finalists for the 2024 National Medal for Museum and Library Service. SDCL is one of four selected institutions in California, and the state’s only library selected as a finalist this year.

The National Medal, awarded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, is the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries having a significant impact in their communities. The winners will be announced in late May.

SDCL is recognized for its mission to support every individual to "Create your own story," offering programs like Kindergarten Gear Up, Library High School, digital connectivity, Little Free Libraries, the RUTH: Remember Us The Holocaust exhibit, and much more.

Share Your Story

Help us celebrate by sharing your story about an experience you had with us or why you love San Diego County Library. Photos and videos are encouraged!

Be sure to tag @sdcountylibrary and @US_IMLS and use hashtags #ShareYourStory and #IMLSmedals.

"At San Diego County Library, we're not solely focused on providing services; we're about empowering individuals to go beyond the pages of a book to create their own unique story. Our distinct range of programs are purposefully designed to encourage growth and belonging, ensuring that everyone feels welcome in our libraries and has opportunity to shape their own story."

- San Diego County Library Director Migell Acosta

Kindergarten Gear Up students pose after receiving their certificates of completion. The 10-lesson customizable curriculum helps public libraries teach 20 fundamental skills designed to prepare children for kindergarten.
A graduate embraces his son during a Library High School graduation ceremony.
Curator Sandra Scheller shows Manya Wallenfels, a San Diego resident and Holocaust survivor, her photo cut-out as part of the RUTH: Remember Us The Holocaust exhibit at Rancho San Diego Library. The project offers a unique, immersive experience, sharing the stories of local Jewish Holocaust victims.
Attendees of the Child Support Super Saturday event smile while holding new Chromebooks and mobile hotspot devices as part of San Diego County Library’s Tech Connect program, part of the Emergency Connectivity Fund grant.
San Diego County Library staff prepare to walk in the San Diego Pride Parade, carrying a banner stating “You Belong At Your Library” during an outreach event.
Young visitors to Lakeside Library enjoy experiential learning, part of San Diego County Library STEAM programming.
A San Diego Lucky Lion Dancer is fed from a brave library member during the 4S Ranch Library Lunar New Year’s Festival.
A cultural dancer performs at The Gathering of Nations, hosted by Bonita-Sunnyside Library and Bonita Museum to celebrate Indigenous cultures.
Young visitors at Casa de Oro Library hold items for their Summer Reading Challenge. The annual opportunity is offered at all 33 branches throughout San Diego County and is often paired with its Lunch at the Library program.
An artist tries brush painting during an adult art program at La Mesa Library.
San Diego Brownie Troop 271 create a kindness mural with the help of artist Lacy Knudson. The Troop donated three original art pieces to Poway Community Library.
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