Amarillo Public Library is one of only 84 of the 545 public library systems in Texas to earn the Texas Municipal Library Directors Association’s Award of Excellence, placing APL in the top 15% of all public libraries in the state.  The 2023 award marks the ninth year in a row, the Texas Municipal Library Directors Association has recognized Amarillo Public Library’s work and service to the Amarillo community.    To receive the award, libraries must demonstrate excellence in ten categories:

1. Services to underserved populations through outreach, special programs, collaborations with other organizations, or special collections
2. Innovative and effective marketing materials highlighting services and publicity about specific library programs
3. Collaboration with community organizations
4. Enhanced service to the public either through an increase in service or additional type of services
5. Literacy support for all ages
6. Digital inclusion through public internet access, digital literacy training, and online library services
7. Workforce development support
8. Cultural, topical, and educational programming for adults and families
9. Professional training opportunities for staff at all levels
10. Other services that demonstrate how the library served the community with excellence during the past year.

Director of Library Services Amanda Barrera says APL’s history of winning the award demonstrates the consistent excellence of Library staff.  “We are grateful to TMLDA for recognizing APL’s outstanding work year after year.  Without our staff’s hard work and dedication, we would not be able to continue clearing this high bar and being counted among the best in Texas.”

Barrera says the award is also possible because of the Library Advisory Board, City Management, and City Council who have always worked to ensure all Amarillo citizens have access to library services.  “We’re also incredibly grateful for the support of Friends of the Amarillo Public Library who provide funding for some of our most popular programs.”