The Georgia Public Library Service has named Cobb County Public Library (CCPL) its Library of the Year. Championing its pivotal role across its 15 branches and serving a population of over 750,000, as reported by the library's official news release.
Cobb County's public library system has been recognized for its extensive community services, including the "Books By Mail" program, which delivers library materials to residents unable to visit the library, and its Falls Prevention Awareness Initiative, which provides educational and wellness programs aimed at senior citizens. Georgia State Senator Michael Rhett underscored the library's contribution to learning and community development, saying, "The Cobb County Public Library prides itself with providing excellent, responsive service to enrich people's lives, support lifelong learning, build and enhance our communities."
The award also acknowledged the director of CCPL, Helen Poyer, and her team for their dedication to adapting to changing technologies and community needs. "We have a diverse, creative, knowledgeable, innovative, and experienced team that goes above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of the people we serve," Poyer told the library's news platform.
Moreover, as part of their community service, CCPL partnered with the non-profit organization Vision To Learn. Together, they provided over 2,100 eye exams and 1,400 pairs of glasses to local children, free of cost through mobile vision clinics. Chief Growth Officer at Vision To Learn, Peter Silberman, lauded the partnership, stating, "Cobb County Public Library was a pioneering partner and has continued to set the standard for using libraries as a critical resource in the community, not just for literacy, but for health and wellness."
Apart from health and wellness programs, the library also serves as a hub for educational growth, offering programs that have benefitted the realm of student success and career advancement. Access to library services has been made possible for students using their lunch numbers, while partnerships with organizations like CobbWorks have facilitated workshops for skills improvement. "Their unwavering commitment to serving the community is apparent in the resources and support they provide," said Sonya Grant, president and CEO of CobbWorks.
The library's outreach does not end at education and wellness. Their response to the pandemic's impact on food security came in the form of a partnership with Georgia Educational Resources, Inc., providing over 141,500 meals to more than 11,000 children at the library branches. This commitment left Tammie Johnson, director at Georgia Educational Resources, Inc., praising the library's significant role in assuring that "many children received nutritious meals who may not have otherwise."
Cobb County Public Library's efforts and services have not only earned it the Library of the Year award, but also have cemented its role as a cornerstone in the community. Further details about the local celebration for this recognition can be inquired at Cobb County Public Library.
