PGCMLS Receives 1 Of 8 National Top Innovator Awards For Intellectual Freedom Campaign

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, MD — The Urban Libraries Council has given one of its eight Top Innovator Awards in the nation to the Prince George's County Memorial Library System for its innovative approach to highlight the right to read for everyone.

The library's recent Rock Banned campaign promoted the importance of intellectual freedom.

Other libraries receiving the Top Innovator Award include the Los Angeles Public Library, Dallas Public Library, Las Vegas-Clark County Library District, Louisville Free Public Library, Cambridge Public Library (Massachusetts), Kansas City Public Library and Queens Library.

“It is clear from this year’s selected 2023 Innovations that ULC member libraries are at the forefront of industry creativity, leading far-reaching efforts, and developing original programming,” said ULC President and CEO Brooks Rainwater. “These winners illustrate the exceptional leadership, dedication and perseverance demonstrated by our libraries amidst ongoing change and pressure. We applaud the Prince George’s County Memorial Library System for their visionary program, which will revolutionize their library and community and serve as a template for public libraries across North America.”

The Rock Banned campaign informed readers about intellectual freedom and drew attention to the increase in book challenges nationally. The campaign included digital content showcasing staff expertise, an advocacy call to action, content for the library’s “These Books Made Me” podcast, a PSA featuring Adrianna Hopkins of 7News DC and a keynote event with Pulitzer-winning writer and Bowie resident Leonard Pitts Jr.

The campaign has engaged more than 95,000 customers of all ages in informal learning opportunities to deepen their understanding of the role of intellectual freedom in society and the role of libraries in protecting democracy.

"PGCMLS is honored to be recognized among this cohort of leading public libraries across the country," said Nicholas A. Brown, acting co-CEO. "Libraries and library workers are working tirelessly to protect the right to read and we accept this important duty as part of our service to the community here in Prince George's County."