Hudson Valley Library Is Finalist for Best in Nation

A local library has the honor of being named first finalist for the 2015 Best Small Library in America Award. The annual award is handed out by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the Library Journal.

Time Warner Cable News reports that the Red Hook Public Library was named first finalist for prestigious award that recognizes the very best small libraries that serve populations of 25,000 or less.

According to the Library Journal, nominated libraries are judged on the following criteria:

• Creativity in developing services and programs that can be replicated by other libraries, including outreach to special populations
• Innovation in introducing and supporting public access to computers and the Internet
• Success in educating patrons in computer use, and measuring the results of technology usage
• Use of technology to expand the reach of library services
• Demonstrated community support
• Sustained cooperation with other libraries
• Partnerships with other agencies and businesses
• Increase in library use, particularly by new users
• Evidence of library’s role as community center

Librarians from around the country, the Library Journal staff and a representative from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation decide on the winning libraries.

Besides national recognition, the prize for first finalist also includes a $10,000 cash prize. Red Hook Public Library director Erica Freudenberger told Time Warner that they are already considering ways to put their prize money to work for the community. One of their ideas is to purchase a 3D printer for the library.