Wilton Library has been awarded the inaugural CT State Library Excellence in Public Libraries Award for Community Engagement. According to a press release issued by Wilton Library, the awards are “designed to honor and celebrate outstanding public libraries in Connecticut that demonstrate excellence in service and innovative programming and have a profound impact on their communities.”
This is the first year that the Connecticut State Library has presented the awards. In addition to Wilton Library, five other libraries were also recognized: Danbury Library for “Accessibility and Inclusion,” Hamden Public Library for “Advancement in Literacy and Education,” Darien Library as “Civic Champion,” Hartford Public Library for “Innovative Programming,” and Ansonia Library for “Outstanding Children’s Services.”
“We are honored to receive the first-ever Community Engagement award from the CT State Library. At Wilton Library, we strive to fulfill the diverse needs of our changing community and create an environment where everyone is made to feel safe and welcome,” Wilton Library Executive Director Caroline Mandler said. “We would like to share this honor with our incredible community partners and extend our sincere thanks to all of them. We are very grateful to be able to collaborate with so many outstanding local organizations that embrace this same vision for our community.”
Wilton Library was recognized for its collaboration with more than 70 community partners annually, as well as a variety of strategic initiatives designed to strengthen community engagement and build a sense of belonging for residents of all ages.
These initiatives include co-hosting new town-wide events such as the annual Wilton Pride “Be You” Festival and Come Out and Run 5K, the Volunteer Fair in collaboration with Wilton Youth Council and the “Wilton Is Where You Belong” campaign, co-sponsoring the Community Cultural Celebration at the Riverbrook Regional YMCA, and launching a “Work in Wilton” library card campaign to engage and support local businesses. Additionally, children’s librarians visit an average of 10 preschools monthly, and children’s and teen librarians collaborate with and visit the Wilton schools throughout the school year. Collectively, thousands of community members have attended and benefited from these programs.
The CT State Library will present the 2025 Excellence in Public Libraries Awards at a ceremony to be held on Thursday, Aug. 14 at the Connecticut State Library and Supreme Court Building in Hartford.
