Library of the Year: Columbus Ohio

Columbus’ public library system is getting the cover story treatment in an upcoming edition of Library Journal after being named library of the year by the trade publication.

Library Journal and educational publisher Gale disclosed Monday that the 21-branch Columbus Metropolitan Library system won the annual honor. The award will be presented at a June 27 reception at the ALA Annual in Washington, DC. The library also wins a $10,000 award and will be featured on the cover of the publication in its June 15 issue.

The publication said the honor goes each year to the library that “most profoundly demonstrates service to community, creativity and innovation in developing specific community programs and leadership in creating programs that can be emulated by others.” Singled out were the Columbus library’s homework help and job help centers, expanded in recent years as more unemployed Central Ohioans turn to the free service to help in the employment hunt.

Congratulations to the winning library!