Bed-Stuy Librarian Named 'Health Hero' For Pandemic Response

BED-STUY, BROOKLYN — A local librarian who was one of the first to move services outdoors in the early days of the coronavirus crisis has been named a "Health Hero," the only library staff included in the award.

Nicole Bryan, the head librarian at the Macon Library branch, was one of 25 New Yorkers named "Empire Whole Health Heroes," an award that recognizes leadership in the reopening of New York City from the pandemic.

Bryan, who took over managing the library in January 2020, was recognized for quickly pivoting to serve neighbors during the pandemic by setting up programs outdoors and online.

“In her role as branch manager at the Macon Library, Nicole is a transformative visionary!" Regional Librarian LaMeane Isaac said. "She is able to combine traditional library services with innovative approaches to services to meet the needs of the residents of the Bedford Stuyvesant community she and her staff serve."

The Empire Whole Health Hero award is presented by Empire BlueCross BlueShield and Crain’s New York Business. Set up last year, it recognizes leaders committed to the safety and wellness of New Yorkers, specifically relating to the revitalization and reopening of New York City, according to organizers.

This year's winners include leaders from the American Museum of Natural History, City Winery, NYC Hospitality Alliance and more. The awards recognizes essential workers and those in business or healthcare.

In her role as head librarian, Bryan arranged to block off the street in front of the Macon branch to set up an outdoor library in May 2020, before many other businesses or community centers decided to move outside.

She then helped organize a skating party in front of the library — complete with a DJ and performers — with the goal of helping neighbors fill out the census, officials said.

“Nicole is a leader at Brooklyn Public Library and in the community,” BPL Chief Librarian Nick Higgins said. “Her care and consideration of people’s needs in all she does inspire all of us to do the best we can each and every day.”

Bryan has been with the Brooklyn Public Library since 2015.

Find a full list of Empire Whole Health Heroes here.