I wanted to find great, award-winning libraries and museums. So I looked up various awards programs run by professional societies. Here are some of the lists I found:

American Alliance of Museums

Tons of award programs are listed here: http://aam-us.org/about-us/grants-awards-and-competitions

The most relevant to this website include the following awards:

• Excellence in Exhibition (see current and past recipient links on the right side of the page)
• Excellence in Programming
• Media and Technology MUSE awards
• Sustainability Excellence Award

Institute of Museum and Library Service

“The National Medal is an annual award made to museums and libraries that have demonstrated a long-term commitment to public service through innovative programs and community partnerships.” This award seems to be sponsored by the First Lady of The United States

• National Medal for Museum and Library Service

Library Journal

• Library of the Year
• Best Small Library in America

American Library Association

There are tons of awards given out by the ALA, as seen here:  http://www.ala.org/awardsgrants/awards/browse/prec?showfilter=no

Still looking through this list to find ones that involve great children’s book sections and lasting programming. Most of the awards seem to be given to individuals who are doing outstanding work in libraries.

State Library Association Awards

• Georgia
• Tennessee
• Florida

Other articles, programs, and awards that may signify excellent publically accessible educational facilities

• American Institute of Architects (AIA) Library Building Awards
• Elle Magazine – Best Library in Each State, article dated Sept 26, 2016
• Trekaroo – Top 10 Best Children’s Museums Across the US

And a good article on the topic of why our childrens museums and libraries are so important, with lots of local examples

“Growing Young Minds: How Museums and Libraries Create Lifelong Learners” (2013)