April 25, 2014

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

IMLS Press Contact
202-653-4799
Giuliana Bullard gbullard@imls.gov

Washington, DC — The 29th meeting of the National Museum and Library Services Board (NMLSB) will take place from 2:30 p.m. – 6 p.m. on Thursday, May 8, 2014, at the Institute of Museum and Library Services, 1800 M St, NW, Ninth Floor, Washington, DC.

The board meeting will focus on topics that are shaping future directions for museums and libraries. Trends that are making waves in philanthropic giving, technology, urban renewal, and lifelong learning will be examined at the meeting, as well as the trend of digital badging and online learning in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). Digital badging, a form of online credentialing, is part of a movement to recognize skill development and training achievements.

The meeting’s featured speakers:

  • Elizabeth Merritt, Founding Director of the Center for the Future of Museums, American Alliance of Museums, will discuss “TrendsWatch 2014”
  • An-Me Chung, Chief of Partnerships and Policy at the Mozilla Foundation, and Stephanie Norby, Director of the Smithsonian Center for Learning and Digital Access, will discuss support for STEM learning

The meeting is open to the public. R.S.V.P. to Katherine Maas kmaas@imls.gov.

About the National Museum and Library Services Board
The National Museum and Library Services Board is an advisory body that includes the director and deputy directors of the Institute of Museum and Library Service and twenty presidentially appointed members of the general public who have demonstrated expertise in, or commitment to, library or museum services. Informed by its collectively vast experience and knowledge, the board advises the IMLS director on general policy and practices, and on selections for the National Medals for Museum and Library Service. For more information about board members see http://www.imls.gov/about/national_museum_and_library_services_board.aspx.

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 www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.