Maine DOE Celebrates 2026 Maine Association of School Libraries Award Winners

Three outstanding educators recognized for contributions to school library programs across the state

Apr. 3, 2026 at 4:24pm

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A high-contrast silkscreen print of a repeating grid of colorful children's books in shades of neon pink, yellow, and blue, conceptually representing the joyful energy and creativity of a school library program.Vibrant school library resources celebrated through a pop art lens, honoring the educators who bring them to life.Portland Today

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is joining the Maine Association of School Libraries (MASL) in recognizing three exceptional educators for their work in supporting school library programs across the state. The honorees include the Walter J. Taranko School Librarian of the Year, Support Staff Educator of the Year, and Administrator of the Year.

Why it matters

These annual MASL awards highlight the vital role school librarians, support staff, and administrators play in fostering literacy, learning, and community engagement through school library programs. The recognition showcases best practices and inspires other educators to strengthen their own school library offerings.

The details

The Walter J. Taranko School Librarian of the Year award went to Portland High School librarian Susie Nick, who was praised for her innovative programming and creating a welcoming library space. The Support Staff Educator of the Year was awarded to Hillory Durgin, an Educational Technician at Wentworth School in Scarborough, for her student-centered approach and leadership in the library. Bethany Connolly, principal of Skillin Elementary School, was named Administrator of the Year for her strong support of the school library program and commitment to representation and equity.

  • The awards were presented in March and April 2026.
  • Susie Nick was recognized on March 25, 2026.
  • Hillory Durgin was surprised with her award on March 11, 2026.
  • Bethany Connolly received her award on March 27, 2026.

The players

Susie Nick

A librarian at Portland High School who was named the 2026 Walter J. Taranko School Librarian of the Year for her innovative programming and creating a welcoming library space.

Heather Perkinson

The past president of the Maine Association of School Libraries (MASL) who presented the awards to the honorees.

Hillory Durgin

An Educational Technician at Wentworth School in Scarborough who was named the 2026 MASL Support Staff Educator of the Year for her student-centered approach and leadership in the library.

Bethany Connolly

The principal of Skillin Elementary School who was named the 2026 MASL Administrator of the Year for her strong support of the school library program and commitment to representation and equity.

Maine Department of Education (DOE)

The state agency that is joining the Maine Association of School Libraries (MASL) in recognizing the award winners.

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What they’re saying

“The library is a breath of fresh air. It is a welcoming place for students to be and a hub of learning and activity.”

— Sheila Jepson, Principal, Portland High School

“She understands that representation matters and that our library must reflect and honor all of our students' identities and experiences. She recognizes a strong school library is not a luxury but a necessity, especially for students who face challenges outside of school.”

— Jennifer Stanbro, Librarian, Skillin Elementary School

The takeaway

These annual MASL awards demonstrate the vital role school librarians, support staff, and administrators play in fostering literacy, learning, and community engagement through school library programs. The recognition of these exceptional educators highlights best practices and inspires others to strengthen their own school library offerings.