At a special ceremony in the Palazzo Del Cinema, Venice, last night, MoLI was singled out among leading cultural projects across Europe to win one of five special Grand Prix awards at the European Commission Europa Nostra Awards.
The awards are the European Commission’s most important cultural heritage awards, and every year identify best practices in the conservation and enhancement of tangible and intangible cultural heritage. The museum’s work in learning, programming and community development was considered by the Europa Nostra to be hugely resonant with European values of openness, integration and democracy.
Presented with the award by renowned opera star Cecelia Bartoli and members of the Europa Nostra and European Commission, MoLI's Director, Simon O’Connor, said: “The founding patrons and partners in UCD and the National Library of Ireland had the ambition and vision to create a major literary institution in the University’s original home that would open reading and writing to all audiences. It is a privilege for us to be recognised here in Venice among so many inspiring European projects with a common moral purpose.”
In their citation, the jury said: “This museum is remarkable in its success in reaching out to lovers of literature and non-traditional audiences alike, and in raising awareness of Ireland’s rich literary heritage.”
Thank you from all at MoLI to the many visitors, members, artists, partners and sponsors that have supported and contributed to the work recognised by this award.
