John F. Szabo, the city Librarian of Los Angeles, has been honored as the 2025 Librarian of the Year by Library Journal, recognizing his transformative leadership at the Los Angeles Public Library (LAPL). Over his 12-year tenure, Szabo has considerably enhanced the library’s outreach and services, implementing innovative programs like the Library Experience Office, which connects residents with essential social services, and the Career Online High School initiative, providing adults with opportunities to earn their diplomas. This prestigious award highlights szabo’s commitment to fostering community engagement and improving access to resources for all Angelenos, solidifying his impact on the library landscape in los Angeles and beyond [1[1[1[1][3[3[3[3].
Time.news Exclusive Interview: Honoring John F. Szabo, 2025 Librarian of the Year
Editor: Today, we have the privilege of discussing the amazing achievements of John F. szabo, the City Librarian of los Angeles, who has been named the 2025 Librarian of the Year by Library Journal. His transformative leadership at the Los Angeles Public Library (LAPL) has made a notable impact on the community. We have with us an expert in library sciences, Dr.lisa ramirez,to help us delve into Szabo’s contributions and their broader implications.
Q: Dr.Ramirez, what does it mean for John F. Szabo to be awarded the title of Librarian of the year?
Dr. Ramirez: This prestigious award is a recognition of not just John Szabo’s dedication over the past twelve years,but also his innovative approach to enhancing library services. LAPL has become a beacon of community support under his leadership, which is notably crucial in a vibrant and diverse city like Los Angeles. His initiatives reflect a modern library’s role as a facilitator of not just information, but also social services and education.
Q: can you elaborate on some of the innovative programs Szabo has implemented?
Dr. Ramirez: Certainly! One standout initiative is the Library Experience office, which connects community members with essential social services. This program underscores the libraryS role as a community hub beyond customary book lending.Additionally, the Career Online High School program addresses educational disparities by providing adults with the opportunity to earn high school diplomas online. Programs like these speak to the evolving mission of public libraries to support lifelong learning and social equity.
Q: In what ways do you think these initiatives affect the community at large?
Dr. Ramirez: Programs like Szabo’s foster greater community engagement and empower residents to improve their life circumstances. By offering accessible pathways to education and significant resources,the library helps bridge gaps for marginalized populations. This not only enhances individual lives but strengthens the fabric of the community, creating a more informed and involved citizenry.
Q: What can other libraries learn from Szabo’s approach?
dr. Ramirez: Other libraries can take inspiration from Szabo’s model of proactive community engagement. It’s essential for libraries to assess the unique needs of their communities and adapt their services accordingly.Establishing connections with social services and educational programs can make libraries indispensable institutions in their locales. Emphasizing outreach and adaptability—just as Szabo has—can lead to transformative changes.
Q: Lastly, how do you beleive Szabo’s recognition will influence the future of library services?
Dr. Ramirez: This acknowledgment serves as a powerful reminder that modern libraries are crucial in the 21st century.Szabo’s recognition reinforces the idea that progressive leadership can pioneer changes that benefit entire populations. As libraries across the nation recognize the need to evolve, John Szabo’s work will undoubtedly serve as a blueprint for how libraries can adapt and thrive in their communities.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Ramirez, for your insights. John F. Szabo’s work at LAPL signifies a forward-thinking approach in library management that can inspire change across various sectors. this discussion has illuminated the importance of libraries in today’s society, proving they are vital spaces for not just information, but connection and community growth.