Deborah Anderson wins Sullivan Award for Public Library Administrators Supporting Services to Children

Chicago – Deborah Anderson has been selected to receive the 2023 Sullivan Award for Public Library Administrators Supporting Services to Children. This award, sponsored by the American Library Association (ALA), annually recognizes an individual who has shown exceptional understanding and support of public library service to children while maintaining administrative responsibilities.

Deborah Anderson, Assistant Director, Education and Engagement, LA County Library was selected for her success in leading initiatives that clearly demonstrate what equity-centered programming for children and families should look like. With many years of experience, Deborah's tremendous efforts have been both far-reaching and impactful. The programs and services offered by Deborah and LA County Library have been crafted to meet the needs of its constituents, demonstrating a “meet them where they are” approach. While giving voice to those in the community who may have been overlooked or marginalized, they also expertly meet the immediate needs of our youngest library users.

Deborah truly embodies the spirit of the Sullivan Award, showing over the length of her career, the depth and breadth of her commitment to the families in the communities she serves.  Skye Patrick, LA County Library Director said “We are thrilled that Deborah Anderson is the recipient of the American Library Association’s Sullivan Award. Her contributions to library service and programming positively impact the lives and well-being of countless children and families that turn to LA County Library as their lifeline. Her steadfast commitment to improving the experiences and life course outcomes for children and their families is a true asset to Los Angeles County and the library field.”

The 2023 Sullivan Award for Public Library Administrators Supporting Services to Children will be presented at the ALA President’s Program, Sunday, June 25, during the ALA Annual Conference in Chicago, IL.

More information about the Sullivan Award for Public Library Administrators Supporting Services to Children can be found at Sullivan Award for Public Library Administrators Supporting Services to Children | Awards & Grants (ala.org)

The 2023 Sullivan Award for Public Library Administrators Supporting Services to Children include Chair Susan Hess, NYC School Librarian, retired; Alice Knapp, Ferguson Library Main Library, CEO; Christina Fuller-Gregory, SC Governors School for the Arts and Humanities, Assistant Director of Libraries; Eva Davis, Canton Public Library, Director; Charity Cree, Program Manager.