The LJ editors are seeking nominations for the 36th annual Library Journal Librarian of the Year Award, sponsored by Baker & Taylor, to honor a professional librarian for outstanding achievement and accomplishments reflecting the loftiest service goals of the library profession. These include:

• free access to information for all
• the encouragement of reading and the creation of inducements to greater use of books and other library materials and information sources
• the enhancement and expansion of library service to all areas and constituencies in the community
• the strengthening of the library role and position in the community whether that community is a city or town, college or university, school, company, or corporation

Who is eligible?

Any working professional librarian in any type of library anywhere in North America (United States, Canada, Mexico) is eligible. “Professional” means a person in possession of a master’s degree in Library and/or Information Science and/or holding a position designated “professional” in a library or library service.

Winners

Examples of winning achievements can include but are not limited to:

• Creating innovative information services to serve identified community needs and thus enhance library service without resorting to user fees
• Building, rebuilding, and/or strengthening local political, fiscal, and public support
• Effectively promoting the use of the library’s services and collections
• Carving out a niche within a company, corporation, or campus that makes the library more vital and central to the mission and success of the firm or institution
• Revamping or expanding library service to be more equitable, and/or to better meet the needs of patrons who are members of historically marginalized or underserved groups
• Developing a more supportive and inclusive workplace culture to fight burnout, improve morale, increase transparency, and incorporate staff into decision-making
• Combatting bans and challenges to library materials, displays, and programs and educating the public about the need for intellectual freedom and access to books representing BIPOC and LGTBQIA+ experiences

To nominate

Nominations for Librarian of the Year are sought and welcome from the entire profession as well as from trustees, administrators, officials, colleagues, and library users. Nominating letters should name the candidate and describe in 500 words or less why the nominee is deserving of recognition. Supporting letters and accompanying material will be considered, but the nominating letter itself will be of prime importance. People nominated in previous years are also eligible. The winner will be given an award of $2,500 by Baker & Taylor.

NOMINATION POSTMARK OR EMAIL DEADLINE: OCTOBER 23, 2024

Please submit nominations via the form found here.

If you have any questions regarding the submission process, please contact Hallie Rich at hrich@mediasourceinc.com.