The Oustanding Library Advocate Award began in 2022 to expand the recognition of library advocacy beyond the field of journalism.
This award goes to someone who is not necessarily a librarian, but who has contributed to a library or to the profession in some significant way. An advocate can be a volunteer, paraprofessional, town official, teacher, principal, professor, trustee, sponsor, supporter, or ally – anyone whose advocacy of the profession warrants praise.
Previous recipients include:
Award Year | Recipient's Name | Recipient's Action / Contribution |
2023 | Holly Williams | Former Director of Pittsfield Public Library, current Head of Circulation at Bangor Public Library. Holly bravely stood forward as a public role model for rural libraries, reaching out for support from the community and speaking out publicly to challenge a town council decision to reduce the library's budget and staffing. The outcome of this challenge was continued funding for the library; turning a budget shortfall into an increase for the next fiscal year. |
2022 | Evelyn A. | 5th grade student Evelyn A. offered public testimony before a School Committee for a book challenge at the York Middle School Library. |