Two nonprofit organizations in our area with widely different missions but the same goal of providing lifelong educational opportunities are celebrating big milestones.

In Norwich, the Otis Library, which has been serving that community since 1850, earned a remarkable distinction when the Institute of Museum and Library Services recognized it as among five libraries nationally to receive its gold medal of excellence. It is the highest honor the organization gives to libraries.

Representatives of the library, including its executive director and greatest advocate, Rob Farwell, will travel to Washington, D.C., on June 1 to formally accept the award.

Meanwhile on Monday, the Dennison Pequotsepos Nature Center will celebrate its 70th anniversary. This will be a special anniversary because the center will fulfill its vision for the Coogan Farm property in Mystic.

The ceremony will include the official opening of the Jules X. Schneider Nature & Arts Barn and the John E. Avery House & Welcome Center. The organization deserves accolades for its restoration and creative re-use of the farmhouse and barn on the property, part of the plan to preserve the 45 acres and its agricultural heritage dating back nearly four centuries.

Among the dignitaries expected to attend the 1 p.m. ceremony are Gov. Dannel P. Malloy and U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney, D-2nd District.

Otis Library demonstrates daily the important role free public libraries still serve, even in an age when people can access more information on a smartphone than any library could store. By far the smallest of this year’s library honorees, Otis is successful because, in addition to traditional library services, it offers programs that weave it into the fabric of an ever-changing community.

Working with Literacy Volunteers, Otis provides numerous programs for immigrants to learn the English language, along with the tools to assimilate into a new culture. Technology classes, some offered in Spanish, provide an introduction into basic computer skills. In the Citizen Workshop, lawyers and other volunteers help immigrants complete their application for citizenship.

As for the nature center, its leadership, led by Executive Director Maggie Jones, recognized an opportunity to preserve the 45-acre Coogan Farm property and its history, securing the $5 million in funding to make it happen.

With a Giving Garden that produces fresh produce for local food pantries, cooking and planting lessons stressing locally grown crops, and passive recreational opportunities, Coogan Farm will remain relevant even as it honors nature and local history.

We congratulate two great local organizations.