The New Haven Free Public Library will have a delayed opening at noon on Thursday, April 25, 2024 for staff development.

The New Haven Free Public Library is the proud winner of the 2019 National Medal for Museum and Library Service awarded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services!

Institute of Museum and Library Services Director Dr. Kathryn “Kit” Matthew (right) presents the National Medal for Museum and Library Service to the New Haven Free Public Library on June 12, 2019. Accepting the award are Martha Brogan, City Librarian and Director (center) and Community Ambassador Nilda Aponte (left).

On May 7, 2019, the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) announced New Haven Free Public Library (NHFPL) of New Haven, Connecticut as one of 10 recipients of the 2019 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries that make significant and exceptional contributions to their communities. On June 12, 2019, NHFPL Board President Shana Schneider, City Librarian Martha Brogan, and Community Ambassador Nilda Aponte traveled to Washington D.C. to accept the award.

“This award is a true testament to the innovative work of NHFPL… I nominated them for this award because of their unmatched commitment and service to Connecticut residents, and for going above and beyond to offer 21st century programming to fit the diverse needs of the New Haven community.”

– U.S. Senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut


2019 National Medal for Museum and Library Service Winners Video

IMLS NHFPL Press Release, May 7, 2019


What does the New Haven Free Public Library mean to you?
We wanted to know the impact of the library on your life, so we asked some of you to tell us your NHFPL story.  

My NHFPL Story | Community Ambassadors: Bringing Theater to Life Through the NHFPL + LWT Partnership

My NHFPL Story | Afterschool Coding and Crafts for this Fair Haven Family

My NHFPL Story | Bridge to My Identity: Heritage, Race and Culture at Stetson Library

My NHFPL Story | Feeling Free, Calm and Safe: At Home in the Teen Center

My NHFPL Story | “I’ll Take Our Library in My Suitcase”: Newcomers Being Heard and Giving Back at Mitchell Library

My NHFPL Story | Returning to New Haven and Discovering Entrepreneurial Empowerment in Ives Squared

My NHFPL Story | “Representation Matters”: Taking Pride as a Volunteer at Wilson Library