Provided by Occoquan District Supervisor Kenny Boddye’s Office
Prince William Public Libraries has been named a Top Innovator for 2025 by the Urban Libraries Council (ULC), North America’s leading nonprofit for urban libraries. This recognition is in honor of PWPL’s “Finding a Way to Slay Among Gen Z,” which shattered the “old-fashioned” stereotype many teens have about public libraries by inviting a teen volunteer to collaborate with staff to develop a creative, bold storytelling approach to connect with the hard-to-engage Gen Z audience.
“I’m incredibly proud of the collaboration between our librarians, Communications and Marketing team, and—most notably—our teen volunteer for crafting such an inventive script, as well as Gregg for absolutely slaying the delivery of Gen Z slang,” commented Jennifer Patterson, Director. “Being named a Top Innovator in the Advocacy & Awareness category affirms that Prince William Public Libraries continues to adapt and innovate to reach our target audiences—in this case, meeting teens where they are, elevating their voices, and showcasing that libraries are dynamic, modern, and deeply connected to our community. This recognition reinforces our mission to bring people, information, and ideas together in a welcoming, inclusive environment.”
ULC’s Innovations Initiative is a yearly showcase of exemplary projects from its nearly 200 member libraries across the U.S. and Canada. It seeks to highlight how the library’s role as an essential public institution is evolving to meet the changing needs of communities. From initiatives that promote civic engagement and intellectual freedom to projects that enhance digital connectivity and economic mobility, libraries are at the forefront of addressing today’s challenges.
PWPL was selected as a Top Innovator by a distinguished panel of judges. The project won in the category of Advocacy & Awareness for its originality, measurable outcomes, and the potential for other libraries to replicate and implement this successful initiative. More than 180 library projects in six categories were submitted by ULC members from across the U.S. and Canada to be considered for the top awards.
PWPL joins world-class programs from peers across North America. Six public libraries in total received the “Top Innovator” designation, and six others received honorable mention recognition for their work.
