This is an archived article and the information in the article may be outdated. Please look at the time stamp on the story to see when it was last updated.

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Memphis Zoo is poised for continuing success after receiving a large grant.

The zoo was awarded two grants totaling $627,160, Rep. Steve Cohen announced Monday. The money will go toward facility upgrades and research projects.

“This infusion of federal funding will support and improve our city’s world-class zoo for all Memphians and help attract tourists,” Rep. Cohen said.

These grants were part of about $650,000 in federal funding designated for Memphis from the Institute of Museum and Library Services. The Metal Museum received $26,000 in grant money to digitize its archives.

The IMLS is an independent federal agency that supports our country’s libraries and museums through awarding grants, developing policy and research.