2026 Local Library Champion Award

The Ohio Library Council has selected Lu Ann Stanley, a member of the Wright Memorial Public Library Foundation Board, as the recipient of the 2026 Local Library Champion Award. Through nearly two decades of extraordinary volunteer leadership, advocacy, and philanthropy, Stanley has helped transform the Wright Memorial Public Library into a thriving community center.

Since joining the Wright Memorial Public Library Foundation in 2009, Stanley has dedicated her time, expertise, and personal resources to advancing the library's mission. Drawing on her experience as an attorney and deep knowledge of the community, she helped build the Foundation's fundraising capacity, growing its annual campaign from just $6,000 in 2009 to more than $128,000 in 2025. Her leadership has generated private support that restored library hours, enhanced collections and services, and helped complete two major renovation projects that modernized the library while preserving its historic character.

Appointed to the Library Board of Trustees in 2011, Stanley became a driving force behind many of the library's most significant accomplishments. She provided steady leadership during organizational transitions, helped recruit and support a leadership team focused on community engagement, and championed strategic planning that positioned the library for long-term success. Following an unsuccessful levy campaign in 2016, Stanley encouraged library leaders to seek meaningful community input through surveys, focus groups, and feasibility studies, ensuring future plans reflected residents' priorities. Her thoughtful approach to advocacy helped build public trust and contributed to the successful passage of multiple library levies.

As a leader on the Facilities and Communications Committees, she helped guide a comprehensive renovation that improved accessibility, created modern learning spaces for all ages, restored historic architectural features, and enhanced the library's role as a gathering place. She also fostered stronger relationships with donors and community supporters, helping cultivate a lasting culture of philanthropy that continues to benefit the library today.

Even after completing her service on the Board of Trustees due to term limits in 2025, Stanley's commitment to Wright Memorial Public Library never wavered. She returned to the Foundation Board, where she launched the Legacy Society Committee to encourage planned giving and ensure sustainable support for future generations. By leading the effort, she has inspired others to invest in the library's long-term success and strengthened its financial future for years to come.

The Local Library Champion Award recognizes individuals whose exceptional volunteer leadership, advocacy, and dedication have made a lasting impact on their libraries and communities. Through her visionary leadership and nearly 20 years of devoted service, Stanley is a true champion for Wright Memorial Public Library and exemplifies the very spirit of this award.

Stanley will be formally recognized during a special ceremony on October 21, 2026, at the Kalahari Convention Center in Sandusky as part of the Ohio Library Council's Convention and Expo.