Press Releases

NEW BEDFORD WHALING MUSEUM NOMINATED FOR NATIONAL AWARD

(NEW BEDFORD, MA) – The New Bedford Whaling Museum has been nominated for the 2010 National Medal for Museum and Library Service. The nation's highest honor for museums and libraries, the National Medal is conferred by the Institute of Museum and Library Service (IMLS) for "extraordinary civic, educational, economic, environmental, and social contributions to their communities."

The New Bedford Whaling Museum was nominated by Congressman Barney Frank. Commenting on the submission, Congressman Frank said, "I was very proud to be able to nominate the New Bedford Whaling Museum for an award from the Institute for Museum and Library Services. The contribution the museum makes not just to New Bedford but for the entire Southeastern Massachusetts area – and indeed to the nation – economically, culturally and intellectually is extraordinary. People who want to know how museums should operate ought to be certain to spend time studying the Whaling Museum."

The National Medal is awarded to outstanding institutions that make exceptional contributions to their communities, demonstrating extraordinary and innovative approaches to public service and inclusiveness, while exceeding the expected levels of community outreach and advancing global cultural understanding.

In acknowledging the nomination, James Russell, museum president, said, " we are truly grateful to Congressman Frank for this nomination. The museum's board and volunteers have for more than a century been motivated by community service; this commitment and resolve has only grown deeper over the years, and we thank and appreciate the Congressman's thoughtful recommendation that has inspired and motivated all of us to do ever better."

The mission of the Institute of Museum and Library Services is to create strong libraries and museums that connect people to information and ideas. The Institute works at the national level and in coordination with state and local organizations to sustain heritage, culture, and knowledge; enhance learning and innovation; and support professional development.

The New Bedford Whaling Museum is the world's most comprehensive museum devoted to the global story of whales and whaling. The cornerstone of New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, the Museum is located at 18 Johnny Cake Hill in the heart of the city's historic downtown and is open daily. For a complete calendar of events, visit the Whaling Museum online at www.whalingmuseum.org. Join the Museum's online community at flickr.com, facebook.com, Twitter, and blog at www.whalingmuseumblog.org.