We congratulate D.C. Chief Librarian Ginnie Cooper for having the distinction of being the first librarian to receive the Thomas Jefferson Award for Public Architecture from the American Institute of Architects. The award recognizes individuals who have furthered public awareness and appreciation of design excellence.

Since becoming chief librarian of the D.C. Public Library in 2006, Cooper has recruited well-known architects to modernize and transform the city’s libraries into vibrant centers of activity. As a result of her efforts to revitalize the library system, the city’s public libraries respond to an exceedingly large number of residents who have taken a new interest in their local branches.