For immediate release | September 14, 2026
Wendy Redfern Selected as the 2026 Tony B. Leisner Scholarship Recipient
2026 Tony B. Leisner Scholarship Recipient - Wendy Redfern
The American Library Association (ALA) has selected Wendy Redfern of Lexington, Virginia as the recipient of the 2026 Tony B. Leisner Scholarship.
Redfern began a career in public libraries in February 2020 as a Youth Programming Specialist at a rural public library in Lexington, Virginia. When the COVID-19 pandemic closed the library shortly afterward, Redfern transformed children’s programming into a year-long Facebook Live storytime series, bringing stories, songs, special guests, and community connections into local homes.
Since then, Redfern has expanded youth programming for children, tweens, and teens through initiatives including Stop Motion Club, Improv, Manga Drawing Club, Book Trailer Film Club, Short Story Slams, Murder Mystery events, Harry Potter Club, Dog Man Club, and Maker’s Club.
After nearly 30 years away from formal education, Redfern returned to school and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Old Dominion University. Redfern is now pursuing a MILS degree with the goal of becoming a youth librarian.
“I understand clearly that access to information, technology, and community are at the heart of a library and it can literally be a lifeline,” Redfern said.
Redfern’s work reflects a commitment to creating welcoming spaces where young people can explore creativity, build connections, access information, and see themselves represented in library collections and programs.
Redfern attends Old Dominion University (Virginia)
For information on the ALA Scholarship program, visit our scholarship page.
The ALA Office for Human Resource Development and Recruitment (HRDR) manages the ALA Scholarship Clearinghouse.
Contact:
Kimberly L. Redd, MSHTM
Office for Human Resource Development and Recruitment (HRDR)
Program Manager, Certification & Talent Development
KLredd@ala.org312.280.4279
