Virginia Library Association honors Suffolk Public Library with two awards
SUFFOLK, Va. (WAVY) – Suffolk Public Library is being recognized by the Virginia Library Association (VLA) Awards and Recognition Committee.
The Community Learning Department has been selected for the Public Library Innovator Award, and Amanda Henderson, Community Engagement Senior Librarian, has been chosen for the Up and Comer Award.
The Public Library Innovator Award honors public librarians or public library project teams who have contributed immensely to advancing the mission of a public library in Virginia through an innovative project, program or service.
"The Community Learning Department, led by Minerva Hernandez Garcia, provides patron-centered programming designed to reduce barriers and meet the needs and aspirations of Suffolk, especially for those from under-resourced and historically marginalized communities, including BIPOC, LGBTQ+ and neurodiverse individuals. Community Learning's innovative library programs and services, including Parking Lot Pride, Spice of the Month Kits and Build Your Crown: Hair Braiding Basics, are based on five core principles: DEI-B (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging), need, audience, intentionality and organizational alignment. The Community Learning team includes Aaliyah Chears-Burton, Kelvin Ellis, Maura Zurfluh and Tyler Ellis, Library Services Coordinators; Bethany Koehn and Diamond Chavis-Waller, Librarians; and Deborah Owen, Senior Librarian," said the VLA.
The Up and Comer Award recognizes a librarian who exhibits leadership skills early in their career. The VLA seeks a recipient that is energetic, with less than five years of professional experience, who pushes the boundaries of originality and creativity.
"Amanda has turned her lifelong dream of librarianship into a vibrant reality," said the VLA. With a deep-rooted passion for research and literacy, Amanda finds joy in every aspect of her role. She believes that libraries are more than just stores of knowledge—they are community centers where people gather, connect, and grow."
"Amanda's dedication extends beyond the library walls. She is fervently committed to addressing food insecurity and enhancing community outreach. Through leading community service initiatives, and creating programs that support local needs, Amanda strives to make a meaningful difference in her community. Her work embodies the belief that libraries play a crucial role in fostering connection and positive change," VLA continued.
Suffolk Public Library will be awarded at the Opening Session of the VLA Annual Conference on Oct. 17 at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott.
Additional information about the Virginia Library Association along with the complete list of the 2024 honorees can be found here .
