The Maine State Library is proud to announce that State Librarian Lori Stockman has been named the 2025 recipient of the Emerson Greenaway Award, the highest honor presented by the New England Library Association (NELA) for distinguished service in librarianship.

The Emerson Greenaway Award recognizes librarians whose leadership, innovation and cooperation have strengthened libraries across New Engand.  It is awarded only when  a candidate’s contributions have significantly advanced the profession on a regional level.

“I am deeply honored by this recognition from the New England library community,” said Stockman.  “My passion to promote information access to all, especially to rural residents, will continue to be my focus on state, regional and national levels.”

Appointed Maine State Librarian in December 2022, Stockman has led efforts to strengthen statewide library networks, promote equitable access to information and support innovation in rural and underserved communities.  Beore coming to Maine, she served as Assistant State Librarian at the New Hampshire State Library and spent 11 years as Director of the Baker Free Library in Bow, New Hampshire.

Throughout her carer, Stockman has been active in professional leadership through the American Library Association, serving on the Committee on Legislation, the Intellectual Freedom & Advocacy Committee and the ALA Policy Corps.  Her work has focused on strengthening libraries as essential public institutions and ensuring that every resident, regardless of location, has access to high-quality informtion and resources.

“Lori Stockman represents the very best of library leadeership in New England.  She has navigated unprecedented challenges while simultaneously building stronger systems, improving communication and expanding regional cooperation,” said Bryce Cundick, chair of the Maine Library Commission.  “Her work has had tangible positive impacts not only in Maine but throughout the region, as other state libraries have adopted some of her innovation approaches to stakeholder engagement and service delivery.”

The Emerson Greenaway Award, named for its first recipient in 1988, is the New England Library Association’s most prestigious honor.  It celebrates individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the profession through leadership, service and advocacy across state lines.  Learn more:  www.nelib.org/emerson-greenaway-award.