The Berks County Public Libraries system recognized outstanding leadership and service within the library community during its 22nd Annual Awards Celebration on March 5. Held at the Library System headquarters, the event gathered 75 attendees to celebrate individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to public libraries across the county.
The awards ceremony, organized by the Berks County Public Libraries (BCPL) Advisory Board, highlighted nominees who demonstrated exceptional commitment to library services, patrons, and programming throughout 2024. The winners were selected from a pool of nominations submitted by members of the library community.
Among this year’s honorees, Senator Judy Schwank received the Outstanding Elected Official award for her continued support of public libraries. Michel Micozzi, a trustee at Reading Public Library, was named Trustee of the Year, while Brakeman’s Cafe in Boyertown was recognized as the Outstanding Local Business for its contributions to library initiatives.
Other awardees included Mike Najarian of Bethel-Tulpehocken Public Library, who was honored as Outstanding Library Volunteer, and the Library Fall Fair at Wernersville Public Library, which won Outstanding Fundraising Effort. The Outstanding Community Organization award went to Preston’s Pantry in Boyertown, acknowledging its role in supporting local library services.
Notable individual recognitions included Chelsea Williams of Hamburg Public Library, who was named Outstanding Library Director, and Daphne Meyer of Bethel-Tulpehocken Public Library, who received the Outstanding Library Staff Member award.
The awards also celebrated innovative programming efforts. Camp Pollywog at Wernersville Public Library was recognized as the Outstanding Youth Program, while Reading Public Library’s Driving Simulation won the Outstanding Teen Program category. Writefest at Spring Township Library was awarded Outstanding Adult Program.
Additionally, Kutztown Community Library received the Chet Hagan Memorial Public Relations Award, and Elizabeth (Betsy) Kreider of Bethel-Tulpehocken Public Library was honored with the Dreisbach Award for Exemplary Service, recognizing her significant contributions to the library system.
The annual awards serve to highlight the dedication of those who contribute to the success and growth of Berks County’s public libraries. Through their efforts, libraries continue to thrive as vital resources for education, enrichment, and community engagement.
