Institute of Museum and Library Services Announces Discovery Science Center of Orange County as a Finalist for the 2013 National Medal for Museum and Library Service

The Institute of Museum and Library Services today announced Discovery Science Center - Orange County (DSC-OC) as a National Medal for Museum and Library Service finalist. The National Medal is the nation's highest honor conferred on museums and libraries for service to the community and celebrates institutions that make a difference for individuals, families, and communities.

Medal finalists are selected from nationwide nominations of institutions that demonstrate innovative approaches to public service, exceeding the expected levels of community outreach. This year's finalists exemplify the nation's great diversity of libraries and museums and include an aquarium and marine science center foundation, conservatory and botanical gardens, county library systems, individual libraries, children's museums, an art museum, science centers, and more, hailing from across the country.

The nomination for the prestigious award was based off of the Taco Bell Discovery Science Center's excellence in community outreach, hosting blockbuster traveling exhibits, commitment to quality guest service, and partnerships with public agencies on environmental awareness. Also, plans to bring a similar science facility to Los Angeles are currently in process.

"We are honored to be named a finalist for this medal," said Joe Adams, President of Discovery Science Center. "It is our hope that the work we do inspires and serves as a powerful demonstration of the impact engaging science education can have on a community and especially the next generation."

Three other California institutions were named finalists including the Santa Ana Public Library, Rancho Cucamonga Public Library and California Digital Library, University of California. DSC-OC was the only museum from California to be named a finalist this year. Both DSC and the Santa Ana Public Library hail from Orange County and are a part of Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez's (CA-46) district.

"The Discovery Science Center is an exceptional Orange County institution and I'm very proud that it has been named a finalist for the National Medal for Museum and Library Service," said Sanchez. "The winners will soon be picked from the thirty-three finalists, and I hope to the see Discovery Science Center receive this prestigious honor, which is so well deserved."

The medal is awarded at a ceremony held in Washington D.C. in May. Along with a $5,000 in cash, each winning institution will get a visit from StoryCorps. This non-profit organization is dedicated to recording and preserving the stories of Americans in the communities served by National Medal recipients. The recordings are preserved at the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress.

Finalists are chosen because of their significant and exceptional contributions to their communities. IMLS is encouraging community members who have visited DSC to share their story on the IMLS Facebook page, http://www.facebook.com/USIMLS. Visit the IMLS Facebook page to learn more about how these institutions make an impact. National Medal for Museum and Library Service winners will be announced this spring.

To Share Your Story, please visit http://www.facebook.com/USIMLS. To learn more about the 2013 National Medal finalists, visit http://www.imls.gov/medals.

About Discovery Science Center - Orange County
Imaginations run wild through more than 100 hands-on exhibits at Discovery Science Center, Orange County's leading destination for hands-on science fun. Take the Eco Challenge and become a green superhero, feel the power of a real rocket engine "launch", explore the inner workings of a two-story tall dinosaur and try your best slap shot against the Anaheim Duck's goalie! Traveling exhibits and annual events such as Spooky Science and Bubblefest throughout the year ensure that there is always something new to discover. Currently on display is Indiana Jones and the Adventure of Archaeology, an interactive exhibit experience following Dr. Jones through the four famous films. Since 1998, Discovery Science Center has been a non-profit organization dedicated to educating young minds, assisting teachers and increasing public understanding of science, math and technology through interactive exhibits and programs. Open daily from 10am - 5pm. For further information, call us at (714) 542-CUBE or visit us online http://www.discoverycube.org.

About the Institute of Museum and Library Services
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation's 123,000 libraries and 17,500 museums. Our mission is to inspire libraries and museums to advance innovation, lifelong learning, and cultural and civic engagement. Our grant making, policy development, and research help libraries and museums deliver valuable services that make it possible for communities and individuals to thrive. To learn more, visit http://www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.