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Press Release Index 2024

October

Media Contacts
Leila Khalil
khalill@mdpls.org
305-375-5291

Miami-Dade Public Library System receives Urban Libraries Council’s 2024 Innovation Award

The Library’s Creating Autism Friendly Spaces initiative is recognized as one of the most innovative and transformative programs among public libraries in North America

MIAMI-DADE (October 18, 2024) — The Miami-Dade County Public Library System (Library) has been honored as a Top Innovator for 2024 by the Urban Libraries Council (ULC) in the category of Equity and Inclusion.  The award recognizes the Library’s Creating Autism Friendly Spaces initiative, which established autism friendly spaces at all library locations and expanded and enhanced sensory friendly programs and services designed for families and children with special needs and neurodiverse individuals.
 
“Our libraries are not just places for books; they are safe havens, community hubs and gateways to opportunities for all residents, regardless of their abilities,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “I am incredibly proud to have our Miami-Dade Public Library System recognized nationally as a Top Innovator.  This prestigious award reflects more than just a single initiative—it’s a testament to Miami-Dade County’s broader vision of inclusivity and equity.”
 
In 2020, the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners passed a resolution, sponsored by Commissioner Raquel Regalado and supported by Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, for the University of Miami-Nova Southeastern University Center to Autism and Related Disabilities (UM-NSU CARD) to develop a Countywide autism and neurodiversity inclusion program.
 
“One of my top priorities is making Miami-Dade County a more inclusive place for our residents of all abilities,” said Miami-Dade County Commissioner Raquel Regalado. “This recognition showcases the hard work and dedication of Miami-Dade Public Libraries in fostering inclusion for everyone in our community and ensuring they have the resources they need to thrive.”
 
In 2021, the Library became the first County department to have its employees, services and programs certified as Autism Friendly, earning recognition as an Autism Friendly Partner by UM-NSU CARD. To achieve this, the entire library staff completed specialized training by UM-NSU CARD on Autism Spectrum Disorder and strategies for inclusivity.  The Library also created customized social narratives for each of its 50 locations to help individuals familiarize themselves with the spaces before visiting, added Sensory Kits at each library to support patrons with sensory sensitivities and expanded its sensory friendly programs, including storytimes and STEAM activities, while adapting existing programs to create more inclusive environments.
 
“We thank the Urban Libraries Council for honoring us with this Innovation Award and recognizing our continued commitment to inclusivity and support for individuals with autism and those who are neurodiverse,” said Ray Baker, Director of the Miami-Dade Public Library System. “We are grateful to UM-NSU CARD for their partnership and collaboration on our Creating Autism Friendly Spaces initiative.  Looking ahead, we’re excited to incorporate sensory friendly rooms into our new and renovated libraries, ensuring our spaces remain accessible and welcoming for everyone.”
 
ULC’s Innovations Initiative is an annual showcase of exemplary projects from over 180 member libraries across the U.S. and Canada.  Six public libraries received the Top Innovator designation in separate categories.  The Miami-Dade Public Library System’s initiative won the award for Equity and Inclusion for its originality, measurable outcomes and potential for replication and implementation by other libraries.  More than 230 library projects were submitted for award consideration.
 
“This year’s Innovation Initiative honorees exemplify the evolving role of libraries as dynamic public institutions that are integral to the fabric of our urban communities,” said ULC President and CEO Brooks Rainwater. “The innovative projects highlighted this year demonstrate the power of libraries to not only adapt but to actively shape the future of our cities, ensuring that all community members have the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.”
 
For more information about the Library’s award-winning initiative, visit www.urbanlibraries.org/innovations.
 
To learn more about sensory friendly resources available at the Library, visit www.mdpls.org/sensoryfriendly.

About the Miami-Dade Public Library System
The Miami-Dade Public Library System (Library) provides extraordinary services, spaces and experiences that promote literacy and learning, personal growth and limitless opportunities. The Library is recognized as an  Autism Friendly Partner by the University of Miami-Nova Southeastern University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities. The Library was also named a finalist for the prestigious IMLS National Medal for Museum and Library Service in 2022 and 2023 and has been honored with several awards, including 102 National Association of Counties (NACo) Achievement Awards over the past seven years, an Urban Libraries Council 2020 Innovation Award, and seven Florida Library Association (FLA) Awards for Excellence and Innovation from 2018 – 2024, including being named Library of the Year in 2024. Learn more at www.mdpls.org.

About Urban Libraries Council
The Urban Libraries Council is an innovation and impact tank of North America’s leading public library systems. ULC drives cutting-edge research and strategic partnerships to elevate the power of libraries as essential, transformative institutions. Across the U.S. and Canada, more than 180 member libraries rely on ULC to identify significant challenges facing today’s communities and provide new tools and techniques to help libraries achieve stronger outcomes in education, digital equity, workforce and economic development, and race and social equity. Learn more at www.urbanlibraries.org.

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To request materials in accessible format, sign language interpreters, and/or any accommodation to participate in any Miami-Dade Public Library System-sponsored program or meeting, please call Monica Martinez at 305-375-5094 or email programs@mdpls.org five days in advance to initiate your request. TTY users may also call 711 (Florida Relay Service).

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May

Media Contacts
Leila Khalil
khalill@mdpls.org
305-375-5291

Miami-Dade Public Library System launches 2024 Summer Reading Challenge and summer programs for all ages

MIAMI-DADE (May 31, 2024) — The Miami-Dade County Public Library System (Library) is pleased to offer an array of engaging and enriching summer programs designed to inspire literacy, learning, and fun for Miami-Dade County residents of all ages.

"Our Miami-Dade public libraries are a vital part of our community, providing invaluable resources and opportunities,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “The Summer Reading Challenge and the Library’s education programs are fantastic ways for our residents to keep their minds active and engaged and to continue to thrive throughout the summer.”

The Library’s 2024 summer programs include the following:

2024 Summer Reading Challenge:  Adventure Begins at Your Library
The annual Summer Reading Challenge, which runs from June 1 through August 12, encourages participants of all ages to read, learn, and engage with their library and community. Those who sign up will have the chance to win great prizes for their reading achievements. Every 30 minutes of reading or listening to a book earns an entry into the prize drawing at the end of the challenge. Additional entries are earned for attending library programs and events. An added bonus for students: reading helps prevent the “summer slide,” the loss of knowledge and achievement gains made during the previous school year. Visit www.mdpls.org/2024SummerReading to sign up and learn more.

Homework Help & Tutoring Program
Students in grades K-12 can stay engaged, prevent summer learning loss, and strengthen their academic skills through the Library’s Homework Help & Tutoring Program. Free tutoring sessions in reading, math, and science taught by certified teachers will be offered every Saturday from June 15 through August 10 between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. at 29 library locations. For a list of participating libraries and more information, visit www.mdpls.org/tutor.

Adult Learning Academy
Miami-Dade County residents ages 18 and older can enhance their language skills or prepare for the U.S. citizenship test this summer with the Library’s Adult Learning Academy. Free 10-week online English (in-person class also available) and Spanish language courses for beginner to advanced level learners, as well as U.S. citizenship classes taught by certified teachers are available. Registration for the summer semester, which runs from July 1 through September 9, opens on June 3. For class times, more information, and to register, visit www.mdpls.org/AdultLearning.

"We are dedicated to supporting lifelong learning and providing the resources needed for academic, personal, and professional growth," said Miami-Dade Public Library System Director Ray Baker. "The Summer Reading Challenge and our education programs are essential tools in combating the ‘summer slide,’ enhancing knowledge and fostering a love of learning."

Residents are also encouraged to participate in a variety of programs offered throughout the summer, including magic and wildlife shows, interactive music events, hands-on STEAM programs, author events, and more. For more information, visit www.mdpls.org/events, call 305-375-2665, or email CustomerCare@mdpls.org.

About the Miami-Dade Public Library System
The Miami-Dade Public Library System (Library) provides extraordinary services, spaces and experiences that promote literacy and learning, personal growth and limitless opportunities. The Library is recognized as an  Autism Friendly Partner by the University of Miami-Nova Southeastern University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities. The Library was also named a finalist for the prestigious IMLS National Medal for Museum and Library Service in 2022 and 2023 and has been honored with several awards, including 102 National Association of Counties (NACo) Achievement Awards over the past seven years, an Urban Libraries Council 2020 Innovation Award, and seven Florida Library Association (FLA) Awards for Excellence and Innovation from 2018 – 2024, including being named Library of the Year in 2024. Learn more at www.mdpls.org.

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To request materials in accessible format, sign language interpreters, and/or any accommodation to participate in any Miami-Dade Public Library System-sponsored program or meeting, please call Monica Martinez at 305-375-5094 or email programs@mdpls.org five days in advance to initiate your request. TTY users may also call 711 (Florida Relay Service).

Miami-Dade Public Library System

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Media Contacts
Leila Khalil
khalill@mdpls.org
305-375-5291

Miami-Dade Public Library System named 2024 Library of the Year by the Florida Library Association

Wins FLA Awards for Excellence in Marketing and Public Relations and Outstanding New Librarian

MIAMI-DADE (May 17, 2024) — The Miami-Dade County Public Library System (Library) is proud to announce that it has been named the 2024 Library of the Year by the Florida Library Association (FLA). This prestigious award recognizes the Library’s outstanding contributions to the community and commitment to excellence, leadership and innovation in serving the diverse needs of Miami-Dade County residents.
 
“Congratulations to the Miami-Dade Public Library System team on this remarkable achievement! This recognition by the Florida Library Association is a testament to their dedication, innovation and hard work,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “The Library plays such a vital role in our community, where residents can access information, resources such as social services and internet connectivity, cultural enrichment and gather for community events. Our libraries are safe spaces where residents can engage and thrive.”

In addition to being named Florida Library of the Year, the Miami-Dade Public Library System has also been honored with two other 2024 FLA Awards:

Excellence in Marketing and Public Relations for effectively and successfully communicating the value of the Library to the community through its multi-faceted Library Card Sign-up Month campaign in September 2023. The campaign resulted in a 21 percent increase in new cardholders over the previous year, a record achievement for the Library as the highest number of new sign-ups in a single month.

Outstanding New Librarian recognizing Daniel Jones for exhibiting exceptional resourcefulness, creativity, leadership and dedication in serving the community at the Naranja Branch Library. Since October 2022, he has made significant contributions to the Library and librarianship by identifying the diverse needs of patrons and providing opportunities for STEAM education, as well as providing assistance with accessing social services and health and wellness resources and establishing successful programs for tweens and teens.

"We are honored and proud to receive these prestigious awards from the Florida Library Association," said Ray Baker, Director of the Miami-Dade Public Library System. "We are committed to providing innovative library services and programs that meet the evolving needs of our community. These awards are a recognition of our team's dedication to excellence and our ongoing commitment to serving the residents of Miami-Dade County."

For more information about the Florida Library Association Award winners, visit https://fla.memberclicks.net/2024-award-winners.

For more information about the Miami-Dade Public Library System and its award-winning programs and services, visit www.mdpls.org.

The 2024 Florida Library Association Awards were presented during a ceremony on May 17 at the FLA Annual Conference in Orlando, Florida.

About the Miami-Dade Public Library System
The Miami-Dade Public Library System (Library) provides extraordinary services, spaces and experiences that promote literacy and learning, personal growth and limitless opportunities. The Library is recognized as an  Autism Friendly Partner by the University of Miami-Nova Southeastern University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities. The Library was also named a finalist for the prestigious IMLS National Medal for Museum and Library Service in 2022 and 2023 and has been honored with several awards, including 102 National Association of Counties (NACo) Achievement Awards over the past seven years, an Urban Libraries Council 2020 Innovation Award, and seven Florida Library Association (FLA) Awards for Excellence and Innovation from 2018 – 2024, including being named Library of the Year in 2024. Learn more at www.mdpls.org.

About the Florida Library Association
The Florida Library Association is a statewide organization that promotes excellence in Florida libraries by advocating strongly for libraries and providing high-quality professional and leadership development for a diverse community of library staff, volunteers and supporters. Learn more at www.flalib.org.

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To request materials in accessible format, sign language interpreters, and/or any accommodation to participate in any Miami-Dade Public Library System-sponsored program or meeting, please call Monica Martinez at 305-375-5094 or email programs@mdpls.org five days in advance to initiate your request. TTY users may also call 711 (Florida Relay Service).

Miami-Dade Public Library System

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Media Contacts
Leila Khalil
khalill@mdpls.org
305-375-5291

Miami-Dade Public Library employees receive national recognition for innovation, technology and dedication to providing accessible and inclusive services

MIAMI-DADE (May 15, 2024) — The Miami-Dade County Public Library System (Library) is pleased to announce that two Miami-Dade Public Library employees have been honored with national awards: the Library Journal’s 2024 Movers & Shakers Award for Innovators and the Reference and User Services Association’s (RUSA) 2024 Emerging Technology Section (ETS) Best Emerging Technology Application Award. These accolades recognize their innovative use of technology and commitment to making library programs and services accessible for all residents of Miami-Dade County.
 
“Providing inclusive access to community services, resources and experiences is essential,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “We are so proud of the exemplary work demonstrated by our County employees. As trusted community spaces, our library system truly sets the bar as they continue to innovate and deliver accessible programming that benefits and enriches the lives of all of our residents.”
 
The Library employees recognized, along with their award-winning accomplishments are as follows:
 
Marlon Moore, Community Engagement Coordinator for Outreach and Mobile Services, has been honored with a Library Journal 2024 Movers & Shakers Award in the Innovators category. The award recognizes his work in creating opportunities to actively engage residents of all ages with the latest technology through the Library’s Technobus, a mobile computer lab on wheels, and for his role in helping develop the Mogul Maker Expo, a series of one-day conferences at the Library presented in collaboration with the Miami-Dade County Office of Innovation and Economic Development. The program aligns with the Mayor’s STRIVE305 Initiative aimed at supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs by making resources and information easily accessible to help them thrive.
 
Jennifer Shipley, Library Operations Manager, whose area of oversight includes the Library’s Braille and Talking Books service, won RUSA’s ETS Best Emerging Technology Application Award, which includes a $3,000 cash prize, after spearheading two innovative interactive exhibitions for people with vision and hearing disabilities that incorporated the use of QR codes. The POP-UP Storywalk™ combined Braille and QR codes, allowing participants to use their phones to hear narrated stories, while a tactile-friendly, multi-sensory POP-UP art exhibition designed for individuals with low vision encouraged touching the art and hearing descriptions through QR codes. The award recognizes individuals or groups who develop or significantly modify original technology for novel uses that directly benefit library users. The awarded cash prize will be used to fund additional inclusive Library programming for the community.
 
"We are proud and honored to receive recognition from both the Reference and User Services Association and Library Journal acknowledging our team's dedication to accessibility and innovation," said Ray Baker, Director of the Miami-Dade Public Library System. "These awards not only celebrate the exceptional efforts of our employees but also highlight Miami-Dade County's commitment to innovation and its impact on our community. Congratulations to Jennifer and Marlon for exemplifying the best of public service!"
 
For more information about the awards, click on the links below.
Marlon Moore | Movers & Shakers 2024—Innovators | Library Journal.
2024 ETS Best Emerging Technology Application Award – RUSA Update
 

About the Miami-Dade Public Library System
The Miami-Dade Public Library System (Library) provides extraordinary services, spaces and experiences that promote literacy and learning, personal growth and limitless opportunities. The Library is recognized as an  Autism Friendly Partner by the University of Miami-Nova Southeastern University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities. The Library was also named a finalist for the prestigious IMLS National Medal for Museum and Library Service in 2022 and 2023 and has been honored with several awards, including 102 National Association of Counties (NACo) Achievement Awards over the past seven years, an Urban Libraries Council 2020 Innovation Award, and seven Florida Library Association (FLA) Awards for Excellence and Innovation from 2018 – 2024, including being named Library of the Year in 2024. Learn more at www.mdpls.org.

About Library Journal
Founded in 1876, Library Journal is a trade publication serving librarians and library workers. Sharing important news and perspectives that shape the field, surfacing best practices and innovations to invest in, identifying emerging leaders, guiding purchasing decisions, and acting as an advocate for librarians and libraries, Library Journal has been leading the field through the great changes and innovations required to keep libraries strong for nearly 150 years.
 
About the Reference and User Services Association
The Reference and User Services Association (RUSA) is a division of the American Library Association. RUSA serves all types of libraries in reference, user services, adult readers advisory and collection development as well as resource sharing, genealogy and archives, business reference and reference technology.

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To request materials in accessible format, sign language interpreters, and/or any accommodation to participate in any Miami-Dade Public Library System-sponsored program or meeting, please call Monica Martinez at 305-375-5094 or email programs@mdpls.org five days in advance to initiate your request. TTY users may also call 711 (Florida Relay Service).

Miami-Dade Public Library System

Connect with us:

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