The Library of Congress has announced the winners of its 2025 National Library Service (NLS) awards, honoring two remarkable libraries for their dedication to providing accessible reading materials.
The Library of Accessible Media for Pennsylvanians and the Kent District Library Talking Book & Braille Center in Michigan have earned national recognition for their innovative services supporting people with disabilities.
National Recognition for Accessibility and Innovation
Since 2004, the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS) has honored libraries across the United States that go above and beyond to ensure reading is accessible to all.
Nearly 100 cooperating libraries are eligible for these annual awards, which highlight innovation, community engagement, and outstanding service.
“These two libraries are wonderful examples of the work being done throughout the NLS network,”
said Jason Broughton, Director of the NLS.
This year, the awards spotlight libraries in Pennsylvania and Michigan for their outstanding contributions to accessible literacy.
Regional Library of the Year — Pennsylvania
The Library of Accessible Media for Pennsylvanians, part of the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, has been named the 2025 Regional Library of the Year.
Led by Administrator Mark Lee, the library serves over 15,600 individuals across Pennsylvania.
Notable Achievements:
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Circulated over 1 million books and materials in 2024
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Produced 44 locally recorded books of regional interest
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Conducted 50 outreach and training events statewide
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Provides tactile maps, large-print books, and early literacy kits
The library’s commitment extends beyond books. A unique partnership with Pittsburgh PBS station WQED resulted in a short video promoting its literacy programs.
Another innovative collaboration with Two Frays Brewery led to the creation of a custom IPA, I Love LAMP, featuring braille-labeled cans to raise awareness during National Library Week.
Subregional Library of the Year — Michigan
The Kent District Library Talking Book & Braille Center in Comstock Park, Michigan, has been selected as the 2025 Subregional Library/Advisory and Outreach Center of the Year.
Under the leadership of Accessibility & Inclusion Specialist Shelley Roossien, the library serves more than 750 patrons across Ionia, Kent, and Montcalm counties.
Community Impact and Expanded Services
The library’s outreach efforts included 30 events at schools, senior living facilities, and community fairs.
It also co-hosted the first annual Kent District Library Disability Expo, promoting accessibility resources for residents and veterans.
2025 Award-Winning Libraries at a Glance
| Library Name | Location | Award Title | Patrons Served | Highlighted Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Library of Accessible Media for Pennsylvanians | Pittsburgh, PA | Regional Library of the Year | 15,600+ | 1 million+ materials circulated, innovative partnerships |
| Kent District Library Talking Book & Braille Center | Comstock Park, MI | Subregional Library/Advisory Center of the Year | 750+ | Adaptive tech upgrades, Disability Expo, veteran outreach |
Innovative Technology for Accessible Reading
Both libraries have made significant investments in adaptive technology to enhance accessibility for their patrons.
Highlights from Michigan include:
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Upgraded Adaptive Technology Lab with a braille embosser
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New refreshable braille display and optical character recognition camera
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Accessible gaming controllers and wearable artificial vision devices
The library also distributed LEGO Braille Bricks kits in both English and Spanish to support inclusive learning initiatives.
A National Network of Inclusive Services
The National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled is a free program providing audio and braille books, magazines, and materials to eligible individuals across the U.S. These materials are available via mail or instant download, ensuring convenient access for people unable to use standard print formats.
Libraries Breaking Barriers
The 2025 Library of the Year awards celebrate more than just books—they highlight how innovation, technology, and community partnerships are making reading accessible to all.
To learn more about the National Library Service and its network of cooperating libraries, visit the official Library of Congress website or explore your local library’s accessibility programs.
Sources: Library of the Congress.
Prepared by Ivan Alexander Golden, Founder of THX News™, an independent news organization delivering timely insights from global official sources. Combines AI-analyzed research with human-edited accuracy and context.
