SEATTLE - Thanks to a $149,743 grant from the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), Woodland Park Zoo will be able to implement a pilot project: using its award-winning African Savanna exhibit.

“Woodland Park Zoo will use the funds from the IMLS grant to create a more vibrant African Savanna experience,” said Woodland Park Zoo’s manager of planning and interpretive exhibits, John Bierlein. “Using knowledge we’ve gained since 1980, when the Africa Savanna opened, we will update existing interpretive graphics and create new graphics and educational programs in order to improve the overall visitor experience.”

“ With their rich collections, museums enable visitors to physically connect with history, science and the creative process,” said Dr. Robert S. Martin, Director of the Institute. “The Museums for America grants will help Woodland Park Zoo advance its role as a trusted resource that serves its community by creating and sustaining a nation of learners.”

As IMLS’s largest grant program, Museums for America provides more than $16 million in grants to support the role of zoos, libraries and museums in American society. Museums for America grants strengthen the ability of these institutions to serve the public more effectively by supporting high-priority activities that advance the institution’s mission and strategic goals.

The Institute of Museum and Library Services is an independent, federal grant-making agency dedicated to creating a nation of learners by helping libraries, zoos and museums serve their communities.

Accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association, top award-winning Woodland ParkZoo is famed for pioneering naturalistic exhibits and setting a standard for zoos all over the world. With conservation, education and excellent animal care at the core of the zoo’s mission, the zoo is helping to save endangered species in Washington state and around the world including tree kangaroos, snow leopards, red-crowned cranes, African wild dogs, western pond turtles and Oregon silverspot butterflies. By inspiring visitors and others to care and act, Woodland Park Zoo is making a difference in our planet’s future.