Nominations sought for best small library

The Library Journal's annual award for the Best Small Library in America, co-sponsored by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, was founded to showcase the exemplary work of small libraries. Now in its third year, the award honors the public library that best demonstrates outstanding service to populations of 25,000 or less. The winning library will receive a $15,000 cash award, a feature story in the Library Journal, membership and conference costs for two library representatives to attend the Public Library Association Biannual Conference in 2008, and a gala reception at the conference.

Members of the editorial board of Library Journal, librarians from around the country, and a representative from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation will judge nominations based on creativity in developing services and programs that can be replicated by other libraries; innovation in supporting public access computing, educating patrons in its use, and measuring the impact of the technology; use of technology to expand the reach of library services; demonstrated community support; cooperation and partnerships with other libraries, agencies, and businesses; increases in library use, particularly by new users; and evidence of the library's role as a community center.

Libraries are invited to document how they have raised their profile in the community, reached out to new users and remote users, and used technology to support and grow patron access to materials and information over the last two years. Libraries must also describe the use of public access computers and how they anticipate sustaining and adapting them to the next generation of users. In describing collaborations with others, include examples of how the library has become a model for the partnering organization and how the organization has become a model for the library.

Anyone can nominate a library, including the library administration or staff, patrons, and members of the community. There is no entry fee. Each entry must include material described in the Library Journal’s nomination and eligibility guidelines at http://www.libraryjournal.com/article/CA606273.html.

Nominations are due by November 1, and should be sent to Library Journal's Award for the Best Small Library in America, c/o Library Journal, 360 Park Avenue, South, New York, NY 10010. Questions can be directed to Rebecca Miller, Rebecca Miller,, or (646) 746-6725.

Last updated on 10/9/2006