The Kate Greenaway Medal was established in 1955, for distinguished illustration in a book for children. It is named after the popular nineteenth century artist known for her fine children's illustrations and designs.

The CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal is awarded annually for an outstanding book in terms of illustration for children and young people.

The winner receives a golden medal and £500 worth of books to donate to a library of their choice.

Since 2000, the winner of the Kate Greenaway Medal has also been awarded the £5000 Colin Mears Award. Colin Mears, a Worthing based accountant and children's book collector, left a bequest providing every Greenaway winner with a cash award as well as the coveted Medal.

The medal is awarded by CILIP: the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals.