The Rhode Island Center for the Book proudly presented Ed Garcia, Director of the Cranston Public Library, with the 2025 Page Turner Award during a celebration held on November 13 at the William Hall Library. Established in 2023, the Page Turner Award honors a librarian or educator who has made an outstanding contribution to the Center’s mission and who champions the joy of reading throughout the state.

“Ed was the only person we considered for this year’s award,” said Kate Lentz, Director of the Rhode Island Center for the Book. “His leadership and unwavering commitment to the Freedom to Read have been truly exceptional.”

Garcia, a nationally respected library leader and a driving force behind Rhode Island’s efforts to safeguard intellectual freedom, reflected on the significance of the recognition. “I am deeply honored to receive the Page Turner Award and to have my work recognized by the Rhode Island Center for the Book,” he said. “Libraries are the pillars of our democracy, places where everyone can freely explore ideas and stories that shape who we are. I share this recognition with all my colleagues who work every day to protect the freedom to read and foster a love of books in our community.”

The celebratory event brought together colleagues, community members, and statewide library champions. Highlights included a surprise presentation of a custom wrestling belt by Representative David “The Commissioner” Morales, along with warm and spirited toasts from incoming ALA President-Elect Dr. Maria McCauley and Cheryl Space, Director of Community Libraries of Providence.

In reflecting on the celebration, Cheryl said, "Ed warmly and sincerely thanked his family, his library director peers, state and city leaders, RILA, and, notably, his Cranston Public Library Staff for this honor. In typical Ed fashion, he deflected the light of recognition onto all who have been part of his advocacy and leadership efforts. His son, in a very personal and heartfelt toast, noted that his dad is one of the hardest workers around."

The evening served as a joyful reminder of the strength, passion, and advocacy within Rhode Island’s library community and of Ed Garcia’s exceptional leadership.

Here's a photo of Ed and his family at the event: