Media Contact
Leila Khalil
khalill@mdpls.org
305-375-5291

(Miami, FL – May 16, 2019) The Miami-Dade Public Library System (MDPLS) is proud to announce that it has been recognized with seven Achievement Awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo). The awards honor innovative, effective county government programs that strengthen services for residents.

MDPLS received the awards in the Libraries category for programs involving learning, literacy, STEAM and outreach as follows:

MDPLS Homework Help & Tutoring Program
In August 2018 MDPLS launched its Homework Help and Tutoring Program at 18 library locations. The program pairs certified teachers with small groups of K-12 students to provide free homework help and tutoring in reading, math, science, and other subjects as needed.

Public and Academic Libraries: An Impactful Partnership
Through resource sharing, MDPLS and Miami Dade College (MDC) – Learning Resources have partnered for the betterment of Miami-Dade County. MDPLS has assisted MDC with its summer camps while promoting library programs (including our Summer Reading Program), services, and resources.

English Conversation Circles
The English Conversation Circle is an informal learning program that gives library visitors the opportunity to practice English language skills in a relaxed, group environment while connecting through conversation and shared interests.

STEAM Tuesdays
During our eight week Summer Reading Program, West Dade Regional Library staff conducted a weekly STEAM program that included hands-on lessons in science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics. These STEAM programs included demonstrations, hands-on activities, and take-home crafts for audiences between the ages of six and twelve.

STEAMFest
STEAMFest is a recurring mini-festival showcasing STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics) and the possibilities it affords youth. Through partnerships with local colleges, universities, and hobby groups, participants were given the opportunity to have hands-on exposure to drones, virtual reality, robotics, and more.

Hackathons at the Library!
The Hackathons at the Library! Program is a series of events that offer young residents an opportunity to develop skills in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics (STEAM). Participants work in teams or individually using emerging technologies to learn about robotics, engineering, and artificial intelligence as they develop critical thinking skills.

Behind the Walls
Behind the Walls is a multifaceted outreach and networking program provided by MDPLS that ventures into the secure areas of prisons, correctional facilities, and jails to fulfill the library informational needs of the incarcerated, recently released individuals, facility administrators, and community organizations/stakeholders.

“We are pleased to once again have our MDPLS staff recognized on a national level for innovative and impactful services provided to our residents,” said Library Director Ray Baker. “These awards exemplify their diligence and dedication in serving our community with quality programs and events.”

Started in 1970, NACo’s annual Achievement Awards program is designed to recognize county government innovations. Each nominee is judged on its own merits and not against other applications received. Awards are given in 18 different categories. Award-winning counties will be recognized at NACo’s 2019 Annual Conference and Exposition July 12-15 in Clark County, Nevada.

About the Miami-Dade Public Library System
The mission of the Miami-Dade Public Library System is to provide extraordinary services, spaces and experiences that promote literacy and learning, personal growth and limitless opportunities. Learn more at www.mdpls.org.

About the National Association of Counties (NACo)
The National Association of Counties (NACo) unites America’s 3,069 county governments. Founded in 1935, NACo brings county officials together to advocate with a collective voice on national policy, exchange ideas and build new leadership skills, pursue transformational county solutions, enrich the public’s understanding of county government and exercise exemplary leadership in public service. Learn more at www.naco.org.