A librarian and guidance teacher from Caledon Central Public School has been recognized for her impact on the profession by the Ontario School Library Association (OSLA).
Jenn Brown was named the 2025 recipient of the organization’s prestigious Angela Thacker Memorial Award. It’s an honour recognizing exceptional work in teacher-librarianship.
Brown’s impact on school libraries is extensive, according to the OSLA.
She was past president of the OSLA, a writer for publications such as The Teaching Librarian and Open Shelf magazines, and a mentor to aspiring librarians at York University’s Librarianship Advanced Qualification courses.
The organization says her work has helped shape the careers of many new generations of teacher-librarians providing them with the tools and inspiration to excel in their roles.
Beth Lyons, the current president of OSLA, had high praise for Brown, highlighting the daily inspiration she provides to her colleagues.
“Working with Jenn every day, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the transformation of an outdated library space into a vibrant, engaging hub for students. Her dedication to the role of the teacher-librarian reminds me to honour the lived experiences of my students, to continually seek diverse voices and perspectives in the books we offer, and to find joy in their independent inquiries,” Lyons said. “Jenn’s work reminds me daily of the power of a well-curated library to inspire and support students.”
The Angela Thacker Memorial Award, named in honour of a dedicated teacher-librarian and advocate for the profession recognizes people who have made significant contributions to teacher-librarianship through publications, professional development, and initiatives that support learning.
Brown’s tireless work, both in the classroom and beyond, exemplifies the qualities of leadership, mentorship, and advocacy that the award celebrates, the OSLA said.
“I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition,” Brown said. “Being able to make a meaningful impact on students and the profession of school libraries is a privilege. The work we do as teacher-librarians is so vital in helping students navigate the world of information, creativity, and inquiry.”
For more information on the Angela Thacker Memorial Award, visit the Angela Thacker Award website: canadianschoollibraries.ca/angela-thacker-award/