The Long Branch Free Public Library has achieved numerous milestones under the guidance of director Tonya Garcia and her remarkable staff, however it reached a new height in 2023 by receiving the prestigious IMLS National Medal for Museum and Library
Services. This recognition marks a historic event in the library’s rich history, as director Garcia received the nation’s highest honor bestowed to libraries, presented by First Lady, Dr. Jill Biden at a White House ceremony on July 17th.
Afterward, Tonya Garcia expressed gratitude, acknowledging the tireless efforts of the library staff, volunteers, and trustees. The award serves as a testament to their impactful work in creating a space that fosters lifelong learning and strengthens the social fabric of the community. Garcia emphasized the vital role that libraries play in transforming lives and empowering individuals.
"This prestigious award is a testament to the impactful work of the Long Branch Free Public Library staff, volunteers, and trustees who work tirelessly to create a space that fosters lifelong learning and strengthens the social fabric of our community," Garcia said in a statement after the award was issued.
The Long Branch Free Public Library stands among esteemed past winners, showcasing its commitment to innovative programs such as the Grow with Google Professional Development Program, the Small Business Pandemic Recovery Service, the Fresh Start Reentry Initiative and the Fade to Books Barbershop Literacy. The library’s initiatives, like the Community Connects Social Services program, have led to it being the first in the state to hire a full-time social worker. Many of the library’s programs have been adopted by libraries state-wide, with many being modeled globally in countries such as Australia and South Korea.
The significance of the award aligns with the ongoing renovation of the historic Carnegie Library that began this year. This renovation aims to breathe renewed prominence into the cultural landmark, ensuring its continued role as a hub for education, culture, and connection. In addition to systems upgrades, new rooms such as a Local History Room, Sensory Room and Teen Space have been introduced. The library’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage and promoting literacy resonates with the ideals represented by the IMLSNational Medal.
The IMLS National Medal will find a prominent place in the newly renovated building, symbolizing not just the restoration of bricks and mortar but a rejuvenation of the library’s commitment to its community. This cements the Long Branch Free Public Library as a beacon of enlightenment for generations to come, showcasing its unwavering dedication to serving and uplifting the community.
Tonya Garcia is the director of the Long Branch Free Public Library as well as a certified public manager and author. She was elected 2019 NJLA President, as well as received numerous honors such as the 2016 NJLA Librarian of the Year, Library Journal Mover and Shaker, the Key to the City of Long Branch and had days in both Monmouth County and Long Branch named in her honor. She is also a survivor, just months after being elected NJLA president she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She went on to write a memoir sharing the tools used to withstand the challenge of facing a potentially terminal disease and to allow herself to be transformed by it. Tonya can be reached by email at garcia@longbranchlib.org
