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Library of Congress Awards National Library Service Network Libraries for Outstanding Service
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Washington, D.C. – The Library of Congress has recognized two outstanding libraries within the National Library Service (NLS) network for their dedication to serving individuals with disabilities. The Library of accessible Media for Pennsylvanians (LAMP) in Pittsburgh and the Kent District library Talking Book & Braille center in comstock Park, Michigan, have been named the 2025 Regional Library of the Year and Subregional Library/Advisory and Outreach Center of the Year, respectively [[2]].
Honoring Excellence in Accessibility
The awards, which were established in 2004, celebrate libraries that demonstrate exceptional commitment to the NLS mission, innovative service delivery, and high levels of reader satisfaction. Almost 100 libraries are considered each year [[2]].
Did You Know? The National Library Service distributes books and magazines in audio and braille formats, downloadable or delivered by mail, free of charge to eligible individuals.
Jason Broughton, director of the National Library Service, stated, “The Library of the Year awards are a well-earned recognition of the impact that these libraries have on their communities and the dedication and passion that their staff members bring to their work.”
2025 Regional Library of the Year: Library of Accessible media for Pennsylvanians
LAMP, a part of the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, serves over 15,600 patrons across Pennsylvania. Led by Library Administrator Mark Lee, the library boasts a team of 22 staff members and 80 volunteers.
In 2024, LAMP circulated over one million books and other materials in various formats. The library also produced 44 locally recorded books of regional interest and hosted 50 outreach and training events.
LAMP’s innovative initiatives include a collaboration with Pittsburgh PBS station WQED to create a video promoting literacy programs and a partnership with Two Frays Brewery to launch “I Love LAMP,” a braille-labeled IPA, to raise funds during National Library Week.
2025 Subregional Library of the Year: Kent District Library Talking Book & Braille Center
The Kent District Library Talking Book & Braille Center serves over 750 patrons in Michigan’s Ionia, Kent, and Montcalm counties. Under the leadership of Accessibility & Inclusion Specialist Shelley Roossien, the library held 30 outreach events in 2024.
The library co-hosted the first annual Kent District Library disability Expo and partnered with the West Michigan Veterans Coalition to connect veterans with accessible library services.
Donor support enabled meaningful upgrades to the library’s Adaptive Technology Lab, including a braille embosser, refreshable braille display, optical character recognition camera, and updated screen reader software. The library also expanded its Beyond Books collection to include portable video magnifiers and accessible gaming controllers.
Pro Tip: Many public libraries offer adaptive technology and accessible resources. Contact your local library to learn more.
The library also acquired LEGO Braille Bricks kits in English and Spanish for outreach and programming.
Celebration at the Library of Congress
The award recipients will be honored at a luncheon on July 23 in the historic Thomas Jefferson Building of the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C.
| Library | award | Location | Key Service |
|---|---|---|---|
| Library of Accessible Media for Pennsylvanians | Regional Library of the Year | Pittsburgh, PA | Accessible Media for over 15,600 patrons |
