WAILUKU, Hawaii (KHON2) — A Maui librarian became a strong presence in Lahaina following the devastating Aug. 8, 2023, Lahaina wildfires, leaving the island’s west side without a library.
Less than a month after the wildfires, Wailuku Public Library librarian Jessica Gleason sprung into action and took charge of a bookmobile, offering multiple services for displaced residents.
Gleason worked with shopping centers, hotels, schools, churches and local government to help provide books, Wi-Fi, meals, clothing and other essentials.
The American Library Association recognized Gleason’s efforts and announced her as one of ten recipients nationwide for the 2025 I Love My Librarian Award, an honor given to someone who has made a profound impact in their community.
According to ALA, each winner was nominated by community members “for their expertise, dedication and profound impact on the people in their communities.”
In addition to recognition, Gleason won $5,000 and a travel stipend to attend an award ceremony at the 2025 LibLearnX Conference in Phoneix from Jan. 24 to Jan. 27.