FOR THE PEOPLE WHO POWER POSSIBILITY.
The American Library Association is thrilled to announce this year’s ten recipients of the coveted I Love My Librarian Award. Serving communities across the nation, the 2026 honorees are exceptional librarians from academic, public, and school libraries who were nominated by community members for their expertise, dedication, and profound impact on the people in their communities.
Each honoree receives a $5,000 cash prize as well as complimentary registration and a $750 travel stipend to attend the American Library Association’s 2026 Annual Conference in Chicago.
Thank you to all the library supporters who sent in nominations. More than 1,300 people—parents, students, teachers, business leaders, community partners, and more—submitted stories highlighting how their librarians have gone above and beyond in their communities. Honorees were selected for their outstanding public service accomplishments.
“As ALA marks its 150th commemoration, we recognize the remarkable contributions these ten librarians make for our communities, for learning, for our health and for the public good. These librarians are people who power possibility in our neighborhoods, our schools, and our places of higher learning. Their leadership, creativity, and innovation strengthen the communities they serve, and we are proud to honor them.”
– ALA President Sam Helmick
Meet the 2026 Honorees
The I Love My Librarian Award is made possible by
Carnegie Corporation of New York has generously sponsored the I Love My Librarian Award since 2008, with additional support from The New York Public Library. The award is administered by the the American Library Association.
Members of the media, please visit the I Love My Librarian Award Press Kit for further resources and contact information.