Daily Local News (West Chester, PA)
Haverford librarian named Librarian of the Year
State Sen. Daylin Leach, D-17, recognized two local librarians at his ninth annual Librarian of the Year award ceremony at Bonefish Grill in King of Prussia.
“Growing up in Northeast Philadelphia, there were not a lot of places to frequent without spending money,” Leach said. “However, the library was always a welcoming place. The librarians there would recommend books that would expand my mind and challenge my opinions. For that, I will always be thankful and appreciate the work that librarians do.”
Leach gave his 2018 Public Librarian of the Year Award to Jennifer Phillips of the Haverford Public Library. He highlighted Phillips’s work in creating “Out at the Library,” an inclusive LGBTQ club focused on empowerment through art, writing and discussion. Phillips also helped create “Stay Woke,” a space for teenagers to discuss current events.
Leach gave his 2018 School Librarian of the Year Award to Tami Peterson of Whitehall Elementary School. He recognized Peterson for her outstanding work with students and for creating an immersive and exciting atmosphere where students were challenged to dream big. In his remarks, Leach noted that Patterson heads the “Healthy Reporter,” a student-led newspaper about healthy eating, and is tasked with coordinating the school’s science fair.
“I am thrilled to recognize Tami and Jennifer with my Librarian of the Year award this year,” Leach said. “Librarians do such important work and that work often goes uncelebrated. Librarians can change the lives of children and adults alike.”
Leach’s Librarian of the Year event honors two outstanding librarians from the 17th Senatorial District each year — one school librarian and one public librarian. This year the event was sponsored by the American Reading Company and UGI Utilities. Winners received a special plaque and a $90 gift card to event host Bonefish Grill.