State Librarian of Delaware and Director of the Delaware Division of Libraries Served 40 years at the Division, 24 in Role as Director

DOVER, Del. — The Delaware Department of State today announced the retirement of public servant Dr. Annie Norman, effective August 1, 2026. Dr. Norman has held the position of State Librarian of Delaware and Director of the Delaware Division of Libraries since 2002.

“A society that cannot read is a society that cannot succeed,” said Governor Meyer. “Thanks to the decades of service from Dr. Annie Norman, people all across our state have been given the greatest gift imaginable, the ability to learn without anyone else’s help.  Annie, the people of our state owe you an immense debt of gratitude for the work you have done, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for creating a space where every Delawarean can learn and grow.”

“Dr. Norman is the definition of public servant and has changed the trajectory of Libraries in our state,” said Delaware Secretary of State Charuni Patibanda-Sanchez. “She’s a systems-thinker, focused on encouraging innovative programming and partnerships to foster an environment that supports literacy across the lifespan. We are so proud — and so lucky for — the work and passion that Annie has done for our state. We are excited for her as she enters her next chapter and wish her a joyful retirement.”

“It has been my great honor and pleasure to serve with Delaware Libraries on behalf of Delawareans! We appreciate the support of the Department of State to continuously elevate libraries, and in turn, to champion Delawareans in learning and renewal throughout their lives,” said Dr. Annie Norman.

Over the years, with the support of each Administration and the General Assembly, as State Librarian, Dr. Norman steered Delaware’s libraries in collaboration, expansion, and improvement of services on behalf of Delawareans. As Delaware Libraries celebrate their 125th Anniversary, the Delaware Library Catalog/Consortium, also celebrates its 20th year!

• Under Dr. Norman’s leadership, the Delaware Library Catalog/Consortium was launched and has expanded to all Delaware public libraries, academic libraries, many school libraries, and special libraries sharing over 4 million items on behalf of Delawareans statewide.
• The Delaware Division of Libraries supports the statewide library technology infrastructure including all public library technologies, the Delaware Library Network, Wi-Fi, public access computing, catalog, electronic collections, program calendar, and more, under Dr. Norman’s leadership — a program that was integral as our state was managing the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Under her tenure as Director, more than 2 dozen library buildings have almost doubled in size overall and are designed to deliver state-of-the-art services through the robust shared technology infrastructure supported by the Delaware Division of Libraries. This included American Rescue Plan (ARPA) funding in 2022 that directly funded the match for projects at nine Delaware Libraries — including new buildings for the Selbyville Public Library, the Harrington Public Library, and the Duck Creek Regional Library, among other critical construction projects.
• Dr. Norman is the founder and Co-Chair of the Delaware Literacy Alliance alongside Secretary of Education Cindy Marten. The organization aims to address the significant literacy gap in our state and reinforce the role Libraries and other state and community programs have in the solution.
• A successful statewide launch of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library – a program that provides free books for all Delaware children ages birth to five — and providing registration through partnerships with hospital systems to ease the registration lift for parents and guardians.
• Delaware Libraries Social Innovation Team, first formed as Job Centers with federal funds and a grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, also expanded the capacity to support Entrepreneurs and innovators through maker technologies and events where people can enthusiastically learn about and experiment with technology and DIY activities and now added Delaware Libraries Teleservices.
• The Social Innovation Team collaborates with Delaware Partners which links over 300 organizations and growing, virtually and in libraries, to expand the reach and capacity to meet Delawareans’ needs across all subject areas, including job training, social services support, Teleservices, and much more!

Dr. Norman has been State Librarian of Delaware for nearly 25 years.
Awards and Educational highlights include:

• Appointed by President Biden to the National Museum and Library Services Board.
• Inducted into the Hall of Fame of Delaware Women in March 2016.
• Recipient of the Delaware Library Association Distinguished Librarian Citation.
• Delaware Division of Libraries received the Delaware Quality Award of Merit and the Delaware Library Association Institutional Award in recognition of performance excellence principles and practices
• Annie is a charter member of the popular Delaware Library Book Cart Drill Team, the Bronze World Champions for 2007.
• Annie received her Doctorate of Education in Innovation and Organizational Leadership from Wilmington University, and is the recipient of the Audrey K. Doberstein Award for Leadership for her dissertation entitled Librarians’ Leadership for Lifelong Learning.
• Her Master’s degree in Library Science is from Drexel University and she is a member of Beta Phi Mu, the international library and information studies honor society.

Delaware Libraries offer specialty library cards for every age group, including a My First Delaware Library Card featuring Baby Blue; a Super Library Card for children ages 6–12; a Teen Delaware Library Card for middle and high school students; and Delaware Library cards featuring the library’s core values: find, connect, learn, inspire, and transform.

Sign up for a Delaware Library Card today! It’s Easy! It’s Free! It’s Online!
Instructions in Spanish are also available. (En el sitio web de las bibliotecas de Delaware se pueden encontrar instrucciones en español para obtener una tarjeta de biblioteca gratuita de Delaware)

DOVER, Del. — Delaware Libraries celebrate National Library Week! Every day this week, Delaware Libraries will celebrate the many unique and impactful programs libraries offer to their communities. The Delaware General Assembly will recognize Library Week in Legislative Hall today on Tuesday, April 21 with a joint resolution sponsored by Senator Russ Huxtable and Representative Alonna Berry.

“Libraries are at the heart of our communities, providing access to knowledge and spaces where people can connect and learn,” said Delaware Secretary of State Patibanda-Sanchez. “During National Library Week, we celebrate the important role libraries play in expanding opportunities for Delawareans across our state.”

National Library Week was established in 1958 by the American Library Association to encourage, support and promote library use while acknowledging the essential contributions of libraries and staff in strengthening communities. National Library Week runs April 19-25, 2026. This year’s theme is “Find Your Joy.”

“National Library Week gives us an opportunity to recognize the importance that libraries play in our communities, serving as hubs of learning, growth, and knowledge that must be both protected and expanded across our state,” said State Senator Russ Huxtable. “I commend our library staff for their dedication to our neighborhoods and look forward to seeing how Delaware libraries grow with our support.”

“Libraries have always played an essential role in our communities – but what that role is, and what it looks like, has grown and changed immensely over time,” said State Representative Alonna Berry. “Libraries are vibrant community hubs – reflections of the people they serve and their unique needs. They are meeting spaces, classrooms, information centers, book depositories, creative studios, and anything else that their communities require of them. But most importantly, they are also the conduits of joy, curiosity, and intellectual freedom. As someone who comes from a long-line of educators and public servants, I could not be more thankful for our state’s wonderful libraries and all that they do for Delawareans.”

Library of Congress Partnership Brings Archived Card Catalog to Laurel Public Library

For this celebration, the Library of Congress has brought 56 card catalog cases out of retirement, transforming them into Library of Congress information kiosks that have been distributed to each state and territory through the Library’s Center for the Book affiliate network.

“Libraries have a vibrant history in our state and across our country,” said Dr. Annie Norman, Delaware’s State Librarian. “This card catalog kiosk is a great way to show library patrons that libraries have been integral to our foundation and will continue to evolve and have a critical role in our community. As we celebrate 125 years in the First State, we are thrilled to also celebrate National Library Week with this fun partnership with the Library of Congress.”

Each card catalog kiosk features signage indicating the card catalog was once in active use at the Library of Congress and explaining its history and original purpose.

The Laurel Public Library (101 E 4th Street, Laurel, DE 19956) will be hosting the card catalog.

“Libraries are a cornerstone of our communities, offering knowledge, history, and opportunity to all who walk through their doors,” said State Senator Bryant Richardson. “I’m grateful to see Laurel Public Library recognized and encourage everyone to take advantage of the resources our libraries provide.”

“I am so proud to represent the Laurel Public Library and the many citizens who frequent the wonderful facility,” said State Representative Tim Dukes. “Being selected as the only library in Delaware to receive the Library of Congress Card Catalog Information Kiosk, is an incredible honor that highlights Laurel’s commitment to preserving history, promoting literacy, and connecting the community with national resources. Being chosen for this unique opportunity places the library among a select group recognized for excellence and innovation. Well done to the staff, supporters, and community members who make the Laurel Public Library such a special place!”

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Delaware Libraries offer specialty library cards for every age group, including a My First Delaware Library Card featuring Baby Blue; a Super Library Card for children ages 6–12; a Teen Delaware Library Card for middle and high school students; and Delaware Library cards featuring the library’s core values: find, connect, learn, inspire, and transform.

Sign up for a Delaware Library Card today! It’s Easy! It’s Free! It’s Online!
Instructions in Spanish are also available. (En el sitio web de las bibliotecas de Delaware se pueden encontrar instrucciones en español para obtener una tarjeta de biblioteca gratuita de Delaware)

Programming celebrating the Delaware Libraries’ 125th anniversary will continue throughout the year.

Delaware Libraries Strive for 100% of Delawareans to have an Active Library Card

DOVER, Del. — Governor Meyer signed a proclamation declaring March 12, 2026, “Delaware Libraries Day” on Thursday in his Legislative Hall office surrounded by members of his Cabinet, members of the General Assembly, advocates, students, and staff from libraries across the state.

“For 125 years, Delaware Libraries have been a place where neighbors help neighbors, and where curiosity turns into opportunity,” said Governor Matt Meyer. “As we work to close our literacy gap, libraries are at the center of that work, powering the Delaware Literacy Alliance and connecting people of every age to books, technology, workforce support, and vital services in every community. My family still looks forward to a trip to the library, and I hope more Delawareans sign up for a free library card to take advantage of the resources and knowledge available to them just a few miles from home.”

On the Delaware Library Association’s annual Legislative Action Day, the Delaware Division of Libraries joined nearly a hundred advocates and students from across the state to share their experiences with public and school libraries, and importance of sustaining them moving forward.

“I feel incredibly fortunate that two divisions in the Department of State — the Delaware Libraries and the Delaware Archives — are celebrating momentous occasions this year: 125 years of Delaware Libraries, and 250 years of our nation,” said Secretary of State Charuni Patibanda-Sanchez. “Getting your Delaware Library card may seem like a little thing, but this free resource empowers you to be an engaged citizen, to explore new passions, and to create lasting memories. Our Libraries do many things to serve the people of Delaware and to meet our residents where they are. Currently only 60 percent of Delawareans have their library card, and we are working every day to make sure every Delawarean holds a library card and takes advantage of all the incredible resources we provide.”

The Delaware Libraries will soon release a booklet highlighting the accomplishments of the past 25 years – including critical investments in technology and infrastructure, focus on community literacy, expansion of partnerships, and the 20th anniversary of the Delaware Library Catalog. Only 50% of Delaware residents have an active card and are taking advantage of hundreds of free services and over 2 million books and even more digital media including movies, audiobooks, games, comics, and more.

“Through the Delaware Literacy Alliance, we are building a culture of literacy that extends far beyond the classroom. One where every child has access to books and every family has a partner in learning,” said Secretary of Education Cindy Marten. “For 125 years, Delaware libraries have been that partner: trusted, welcoming ‘third spaces’ where curiosity is sparked, learning is deepened, and stories become pathways to possibility.”

“It’s been an honor to serve the Delaware Libraries as the State Librarian for the past 25 years. I’ve seen incredible work from all public library branches to serve their communities and want to use this milestone anniversary to celebrate them,” said Dr. Annie Norman, Director of the Delaware Division of Libraries. “Because of the advocacy of our community and the support from leaders like Governor Meyer and members of the General Assembly, we are poised to remain the foundation – the community hubs – for our state through an intentional focus on new infrastructure that meets community needs, an expanded catalog, critical investments in technology, outreach to impactful partners, and a focus on community literacy.”

Delaware Libraries offer specialty library cards for every age group, including a My First Delaware Library Card featuring Baby Blue; a Super Library Card for children ages 6–12; a Teen Delaware Library Card for middle and high school students; and adult cards featuring: find, connect, learn, inspire, and transform yourself at the library!
To sign up for a free Delaware Library Card: DelawareLibraries.org/librarycard
Español: (Instrucciones en español para obtener una tarjeta de biblioteca gratuita de Delaware.)

Programming celebrating the Delaware Libraries’ 125th anniversary will continue throughout the year.
Media Contact: Emily Hershman, Delaware Division of Libraries

DOVER, Del. — The Delaware Division of Libraries (DDL) celebrated the 2026 Blue Hen Book Award Winners on Monday, February 9, 2026

The Blue Hen Book Award is a children’s and teen’s choice award sponsored by the Youth Services Division of the Delaware Library Association. The awards were established in 1996.

The award encourages literacy and library use among Delaware children and teens. Delaware Libraries offer tailored programming for children, families, and teens. A full list of events is available on the Delaware Library Statewide Programming Calendar.

The Blue Hen Book Award includes five categories: young readers, middle readers, graphic novels for middle readers, teen readers, and graphic novels for teen readers.

The 2026 award winners are:

• Young Readers: “The Yellow Bus” by Loren Long
• Middle Readers: “Wat Takes His Shot” by Cheryl Kim, illustrated by Nat Iwata
• Graphic Novels-Middle Readers: “Swim Team” by Johnnie Christmas
• Teen Readers: “Divine Rivals” by Rebecca Ross
• Graphic Novels-Teen Readers: “Lunar New Year Love Story” by Gene Luen Yang; illustrated by LeUyen Pham and “Plain Jane and the Mermaid” by Vera Brosgol

“The annual Blue Hen Book Award is an exciting opportunity for Delaware children and teens to share some of their favorite books,” said Dr. Annie Norman, Director of the Delaware Division of Libraries. “All nominated titles are available through the Delaware Library Catalog. “We know that children who are competent and passionate readers by third grade have a strong foundation for success in school and in life.

Delaware Libraries are a critical partner in closing Delaware’s literacy gap. This award aligns with Governor Meyer’s continued focus on, and investment in, strengthening literacy in Delaware – including making sure educators have the tools they need and how our state libraries are coordinating with the Department of Education and other state agencies to constantly evaluate new ways to strengthen youth literacy.

Children and teens benefit from creating a habit of visiting their local public library — whether to check out a book, attend a community program, or discover a new passion.
“If you don’t yet have a library card, please sign up. It’s online, free, and we’re aiming for every Delawarean to have one as we celebrate 125 years of Delaware Libraries this year.

”Delaware Libraries offer specialty library cards for every age group, including a My First Delaware Library Card featuring Baby Blue; a Super Library Card for children ages 6–12; a Teen Delaware Library Card for middle and high school students; and regular cards: find, connect, learn, inspire, and transform.

To sign up for a free Delaware Library Card, visit delawarelibraries.org/librarycard
Instructions in Spanish are also available.

(En el sitio web de las bibliotecas de Delaware se pueden encontrar instrucciones en español para obtener una tarjeta de biblioteca gratuita de Delaware.)
The Delaware LibGudies provides previous Blue Hen Book Award winners and nominees.
Programming celebrating the Delaware Libraries’ 125th anniversary will begin in March.

Media Contact: Emily.hershman@lib.de.us
Delaware Division of Libraries

This year’s theme is “Color Our World.”

Libraries across Delaware are opening their doors to a world of imagination, learning, and creativity with the launch of the 2025 Summer Library Reading Program, themed “Color Our World.” First Lady Dr. Lauren Meyer and State Librarian Dr. Annie Norman encourage readers of all ages to register at their local public library or online at https://guides.lib.de.us/summerreading.

Now in its 46^th year, the annual Summer Library Reading Program provides programs for children, teens, and people of all ages to motivate and experience the joy of reading throughout the summer. The 2025 theme, Color Our World, features creativity.

“Reading helps young people see the world in new ways, and through initiatives like the Summer Library Reading Program, we’re making sure all children have the opportunity to grow, explore, and shine,” said Governor Matt Meyer. “This year’s theme of “Color Our World” is a beautiful reminder that every child’s voice and imagination add something unique to our communities.”

The statewide initiative, supported by the Governor, the Delaware Department of Education, and the Delaware Division of Libraries, aims to encourage reading during the summer, helping students stay academically engaged and creatively inspired.

“Books enable children and teens to see themselves and others in vivid, meaningful ways,” said First Lady Dr. Lauren Meyer. “I’m thrilled to be part of this effort as the theme highlights the compassion, inclusion, and the incredible potential of young minds.”

In addition to local library events, special programs sponsored by the Division of Libraries at each library include Science of Color by the Delaware Aerospace Education Foundation and Author Orpheus Collar, a New York Times best-selling graphic novelist.  Visit https://guides.lib.de.us/summerreading for the performance schedules and more.

“The Summer Library Reading Program is one of the most powerful ways we nurture a love of reading in Delaware’s students; helping them read, imagine, and grow all summer long,” said Cindy Marten, Secretary of Education. “A love of reading sparks curiosity, builds strong literacy habits at home, and brings families into the joy of literacy together. This is how we raise lifelong readers: one great book, one bedtime story, one spark at a time. So, let’s grow that love. Get a library card, check out a book, and read with a child. Together, we’ll color our world with words, with wonder, and with the power of every child’s voice.”

“Youth Services Librarians’ creative power is connecting each child with the perfect book to launch a reading passion for a lifetime,” said State Librarian Dr. Annie Norman. “Readers who read for pleasure read frequently, building knowledge and reading stamina, which is essential for success in college, careers, and lifelong learning.”

The Division of Libraries is the backbone for the Delaware Literacy Alliance, where library and literacy professionals are joining forces to support literacy across the lifespan.  All who have an interest in literacy are encouraged to participate. Sign up at https://DelawareLiteracyAlliance.org.

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The Delaware Division of Libraries, a state agency dedicated to unleashing the potential in all Delawareans in partnership with Delaware Libraries, offers free access to the DLC (online catalog) Wi-Fi; computers/internet; eBooks; programs/workshops; community partnerships; and more. The Division of Libraries is also the backbone for the Delaware Literacy Alliance, where library and literacy professionals join forces to improve literacy across the lifespan for all Delawareans.