Full Breakdown
Celebrating Community Impact: 2026 I Love My Librarian Award Recipients
4/7/2026, 6:03:21 AM
Overview of the Award and Recipients
The American Library Association (ALA) has announced the ten recipients of the 2026 I Love My Librarian Award, recognizing librarians who have made significant contributions to their communities. Each winner will receive a $5,000 cash prize and a $750 stipend for the ALA's annual convention, scheduled for June 25-29 in Chicago. The award, established in 2008, highlights the transformative roles librarians play in fostering community engagement, literacy, and diversity.
Notable Winners and Their Contributions
Among the awardees is Zachary Stier, the director of children's services at Ericson Public Library in Boone, Iowa. Stier, known as Mr. Z, has been instrumental in connecting literacy with science through initiatives like the Little Engines project, which promotes educational activities for families. His efforts have reportedly led to "tens of thousands of additional minutes spent reading." Additionally, his Activating Community Voices program aims to enhance social cohesion by addressing various community issues, including STEAM learning and mental health.
Other notable winners include:
- Valerie Byrd Fort from the University of South Carolina, recognized for her advocacy against book bans.
- Joanne Doucette at the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, who mentors graduate students in biomedicine.
- Mary Anne Russo of the Hubbard Public Library in Ohio, who transformed a basement into a community gathering space.
- Tracy Fitzmaurice from Jackson County, North Carolina, acknowledged as a transformative leader for rural libraries.
- Deb Sica of the Alameda County Library in California, celebrated for her commitment to diversity and intellectual freedom.
- Christine Szeluga from Cranford High School in New Jersey, who secured grants for a podcast studio and history archive.
- Mahasin Ameen at Indiana University, whose initiatives span health and information literacy.
- Mia Gittlen, who revitalized the library at Milpitas High School in California.
- Jenny Cox from Georgetown Middle School in South Carolina, who worked to increase funding for new books.
Official Statements & Responses
The ALA emphasized the importance of these librarians, stating, "Their leadership, creativity, and innovation strengthen the communities they serve, and we are proud to honor them." The recognition of these individuals reflects a broader commitment to supporting libraries as vital community resources.
Criticism & Opposition
While the awards celebrate positive contributions, the backdrop of ongoing book bans and challenges to library resources remains a contentious issue. Advocates for intellectual freedom continue to voice concerns about censorship and the impact of such actions on community access to diverse literature.
What's Next
The award ceremony will take place during the ALA's annual convention in Chicago, where the winners will be formally recognized for their contributions to their respective communities. This event serves not only to honor the recipients but also to highlight the ongoing challenges and triumphs within the library profession.
