A Strong Year of Recognition and Awards Reflects Volusia Libraries’ Innovation and Service

Posted On: May 27, 2025

Throughout the past year, the Volusia County Public Library has garnered high praise across Florida for its innovative programs, dedicated staff, and community outreach initiatives. It has received several prestigious awards from both the Florida Library Association and the Northeast Florida Library Information Network (NEFLIN), underscoring its role as a leader in innovation and public service.

NEFLIN presented the Library Innovation Award 2024 to the division for its Pedal Forward project, a creative initiative that provides refurbished bicycles to library patrons in need of reliable transportation. The project was launched by the County's Social Worker in the Libraries program after staff identified transportation challenges as a recurring barrier for clients seeking employment, maintaining jobs, or accessing services.

The Acuity Business Pass program, developed in partnership with the County's Economic Development Division, also earned top recognition. It received the 2025 Libraries Mean Business Award from the Florida Library Association and the 2025 Library Innovation Award from NEFLIN. The initiative helps foster entrepreneurship and supports local economies by giving residents access to meeting space, business resources, mentorship, and tools to help small businesses thrive.

Dale "Rusty" Larrimore received the Florida Library Association's 2025 Outstanding Paraprofessional Award, a statewide honor that recognizes exceptional support staff who demonstrate outstanding service, initiative, and dedication. Larrimore was celebrated for his longstanding commitment to the library system, his leadership in daily operations, and his positive impact on both patrons and colleagues.

In addition to statewide recognition, several library staff members were honored through the regionally recognized Positive, Exemplary, Employee Recognition (PEER) Choice Awards program. These awards highlight excellence in library service across the region. Honorees included Pia Andersen (Behind the Scenes Award), Jessica Deprinzio (Make It Happen Award), Mary Clogston (Ambassador Award), and Susan Yirak (Above and Beyond Award), each acknowledged for their outstanding contributions to patrons, colleagues, and the library system.