LEXINGTON, Ky. — Keeneland Library has received the prestigious Thomas D. Clark Award of Excellence from the Kentucky Historical Society, recognizing the institution's outstanding achievement in preserving, sharing and promoting Kentucky's rich Thoroughbred racing heritage.

Library Director Roda Ferraro accepted the award on June 6, coinciding with Kentucky History Day and the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding. The honor, granted to one standout Kentucky entity each year, ranks among the most significant awards in history, research, education and cultural heritage stewardship.

"This award is a tremendous honor," Ferraro said, "and affirmation of an impactful year of record-setting excellence across Keeneland Library's research services and education and outreach initiatives."

In the past year, the library collaborated with 70 community organizations and 62 horse industry organizations to reach nearly 200,000 stakeholders, researchers, media members and learners from all 50 states and 39 countries.

Founded in 1939, the library houses one of the world's largest collections of Thoroughbred racing materials, including thousands of books, magazines and newspapers; millions of photographic negatives and prints dating to the 1800s; and extensive art and artifact collections. The facility opened to the public in its current dedicated building in 2002.

Beyond housing its archive, the library actively engages the public through signature programs including its Library Lecture Series, Starting Gate Storytime for families, exhibit tours, research workshops and behind-the-scenes facility tours. Keeneland Library offers free admission and is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ET.

The Kentucky Historical Society, an agency of the state's Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet, is a Smithsonian affiliate with full accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums.