LAUREL, Md. – Anne Arundel County Public Library (AACPL) officials today announced that Maryland City at Russett Branch Manager Darnice Jasper has received the James Partridge Outstanding African American Information Professional Award for her outstanding contributions to library service. Jasper was honored at the annual INFO Awards Night held on Friday, April 11, at the University of Maryland.
The James Partridge Outstanding African American Information Professional Award, established in 1998, honors the legacy of James Partridge, a distinguished library professional and advocate. Since its inception, the award has celebrated nearly two dozen pioneers who have shaped the library profession, and Jasper joins this elite group as one of this year’s recipients.
Darnice Jasper, from the Columbia area, was recognized for her career-long dedicated service, her exemplary leadership and her commitment to empowering the communities she serves. Jasper was nominated by her peers: Carol Cason, Lauren Eichelberger, Monica Powell, Ashley Rogers and Jayne Walters.
“At a time when our accomplishments, histories and identities are being challenged or erased, this award carries special importance as an African American woman because representation and visibility are crucial,” Jasper said. “Knowing that my peers acknowledge and celebrate the work that I’ve done … is so important. Their belief in me is everything and I share this award with all of them.”
This award, presented by the College of Information (INFO) at the University of Maryland and Citizens for Maryland Libraries (CML), highlights individuals who exemplify the highest ideals of the library profession.
For more information about the James Partridge Outstanding African American Information Award, please visit aacpl.info/james-partridge and for more information about AACPL and its services, please visit aacpl.net.
please do not think that censorship doesn’t still happen even though books are not banned any longer. It happens when theres silence on the radio, it happens when web pages don’t come up.