Central Library of Rochester & Monroe County
News Release
(Thursday, April 1, 2021) – Rochester Public Library and Monroe County Library System Director Patricia Uttaro received the 2021 Sullivan Award for Public Library Administrators Supporting Services to Children. The award, sponsored by the American Library Association (ALA), annually recognizes an individual who has shown exceptional understanding and support of public library service to children while maintaining administrative responsibilities.
“Patty Uttaro is an extraordinary asset to our city,” said Mayor Warren. “Her unyielding dedication to ensure that our youngest citizens are supported through literacy and her willingness to share her expertise with librarians across the nation is a testament to Patty’s commitment to education.”
“I’m proud of my work to expand library services and empower library staff in Rochester and Monroe County over the past 25 years,” said Ms. Uttaro. “I strongly believe that learning to read and reading to learn are the most basic, yet essential skills that a person needs to thrive and be successful.”
Patricia Uttaro was selected for the work she has accomplished in fulfilling her belief that learning to read and reading to learn are the most basic yet essential skills for a person to thrive, prosper and enjoy a successful life. Uttaro has skillfully administered libraries for the past twenty-five years supporting expansion of library services and empowerment of library staff.
Through her efforts, the staff of the Rochester Public Library and Monroe County Library System has provided early literacy training for librarians, teachers and caregivers throughout the country. Uttaro has consistently advocated to remove barriers to access to books by eliminating late fees for children’s and young adult materials among many other accomplishments.
###