On March 4, Berks County Public Libraries honored leadership and service excellence during its 23rd Annual Awards Celebration. Presented at the Library System headquarters in front of an audience of 70 attendees, the event recognized individuals and organizations for their support and contributions to public libraries in Berks County.

Members of the library community nominated individuals, groups, or events that demonstrated outstanding commitment or service to their library and patrons. The Berks County Public Libraries Advisory Board considered nominations from 2025 and announced the category winners during the ceremony.

Distinguished guests at this year’s event included State Representative Jacklyn Rusnock, State Representative Eric Weaknecht, and Steve Howe, Constituent Specialist to State Senator Scott Martin. Representative Rusnock offered opening remarks to the crowd, noting, “libraries and truly community hubs, and they are welcoming, supportive environments that strengthen the fabric of our neighborhoods.” Howe later presented a certificate to Director Carol Donahue for her win of the Outstanding Library Director award.

The full list of award recipients from the 23rd annual awards celebration are as follows:

Outstanding Elected Official — Mayor David Reimer Sr., Borough of Leesport
Outstanding Local Business — Castaneda’s Mexican Restaurant, Robesonia
Outstanding Community Organization — Hamburg Grange, Hamburg
Outstanding Library Director — Carol Donahue, Village Library of Morgantown
Outstanding Library Volunteer — Marsha Olivia, Kutztown Community Library
Outstanding Library Staff Member — Kellee Wood, Bethel-Tulpehocken Public Library
Outstanding Fundraising Effort — 75th Anniversary, Kutztown Community Library
Outstanding Youth Program — Children’s 12 Days of Crafting, Reading Public Library
Outstanding Teen Program — Youth-Led Humanities Grant (Teen Reading Lounge), Brandywine Community Library
Outstanding Adult Program — Bestsellers & Baked Goods, Bethel-Tulpehocken Public Library
Chet Hagan Memorial Public Relations Award — Boyertown Community Library
Dreisbach Award for Exemplary Service — Berks Book Bonanza Volunteers