For the first time, Queens Library has been named “2009 Library of the Year” by Library Journal, the oldest publication covering the library field.
Joanne King, a spokesperson for Queens Library, said the library was “very honored, of course,” for winning the annual nationwide competition.
Queens Library CEO Thomas W. Galante said in a statement, "I hope that we will be able to continue providing innovative, award-winning library services and that the doors to Queens Library will remain open for service a minimum of six days a week."
According to a press release, the “2009 Library of the Year” award recognizes the "ability of the managers and staff to provide an incredibly diverse set of services and continue the constant modernization of the 62 [public] libraries [in Queens]. Their sustained commitment to library service that truly improves the lives of everyone in the borough is what makes the Queens Library so strong."
A press conference on Friday, June 12 on the steps of City Hall will announce the good news to the rest of the city.
Patrick C. Sommers, the president of Gale, one of the award’s sponsors, said in a statement, “We congratulate the Queens Library for their outstanding work and commitment to providing their community with the tools, programs and support needed to get the most out of their library experience.”
Queens Library is one of New York City’s three public library systems. The others are New York Public Library, which serves Manhattan, Staten Island and the Bronx, and the Brooklyn Public Library.
