Three Marshalltown Library representatives were in Washington, D.C. Wednesday to collect of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service.

Director Sarah Rosenblum, volunteer Veronica Guevara and Sarah Rosenblum received the award from First Lady Michelle Obama along with a prize of $5,000 at a ceremony at the White House.

The library underwent a move in 2008 having been first built in the town in 1902 and serves the town's population of 27,500 made up of families that speak over 30 languages.

“Museums and libraries serve as centers for lifelong learning and as cornerstones for our communities. It’s clear Marshalltown Public Library is committed to supporting its diverse community through innovative programs and bridging cultural differences. We are proud to name Marshalltown Public Library one of this year’s National Medal for Museum and Library Service winners,” said Susan Hildreth, director, Institute of Museum and Library Services.

Theisen’s Home-Farm-Auto is offering grants of up to $5,000 in each of its 20 locations.

It’s the fifth year of the Theisen’s More for Your Community Grants program.

Successful applicants will serve the basic needs of families and children, which include food, shelter, education, safety and health.

“This is our fifth year of More for Your Community Grants. We want to continue to encourage the important work being accomplished by the volunteers and leaders of our area nonprofits. We are proud to partner with those who directly serve children and families in our store communities,” said Company President Jim Theisen. “This year, we will increase our corporate giving and we invite nonprofit groups to complete an application online and tell us by August 31 how we can help them more effectively serve families and children.”

Theisen’s have stores in Ames, Marshalltown, Pella and Newton.

Iowa is home to some of the best education in the country with help from dedicated and talented teachers but why which one deserves special recognition?

The deadline to nominate the 2014 Iowa Teacher of the Year is April 26th.

The award is an opportunity to recognize an exceptional Iowa teacher who is helping to redefine education. Nominations are accepted from anyone.

Nomination forms can be found here.

Since its inception in 1958 the Teacher of the Year serves as an ambassador to education and as a liaison to primary and secondary schools, higher education and organizations across the state.

Tania Johnson of Cedar Rapids was named the 2013 Teacher of the Year.

The 2014 Teacher of the Year will be announced this fall.