Oakland Library Earns Democracy Honor — and a Standing Ovation
Updated: May 15
The Oakland Public Library has something to celebrate — and so do we.
On Wednesday, April 8, 2026, the League of Women Voters of Oakland (LWVO) honored the Oakland Public Library (OPL) with its prestigious 2026 Making Democracy Work Award at a ceremony held at the newly opened Henry J. Kaiser Center for the Arts. The Friends of the OPL couldn't be prouder.
A Standing Ovation — Well Earned
When OPL's award was announced, the crowd rose to its feet.
"One of my favorite moments of the event was when the OPL got a standing ovation from the crowd when the award was announced," said Elizabeth Falkner, Secretary of the Friends of the OPL.
It was a fitting tribute. Jamie Turbak, Director of Library Services at the OPL, accepted the award on behalf of an institution that has served this community since 1878.
Why OPL? Because Democracy Lives at the Library
LWVO's annual Making Democracy Work Award honors organizations that strengthen civic life, expand voter participation, and help make Oakland a more vibrant and equitable city. The OPL has done exactly that — for nearly 150 years.
Through its network of neighborhood branches, the Library provides equitable access to information, literacy programs, voter education, community forums, and spaces for public engagement. The League's selection committee specifically recognized both the breadth of OPL's democracy-supporting work and its long-standing partnership with LWVO in providing voter materials and resources to Oakland residents.
Ynez Arce, President of the Friends of the OPL, put it simply: "It is wonderful for OPL to be celebrated as a critical community resource and key contributor to democracy."
A Celebration of Community
The evening also featured a performance by Delilah Young, a 2025 Oakland Youth Poet Laureate Finalist — a reminder that the Library's reach extends from civic engagement to the arts, from voter education to nurturing the next generation of voices. The Friends have supported the Oakland Youth Poet Laureate program with a $5,000 scholarship for the winner each year.
Support the Work That Supports Us All
The League of Women Voters has been a nonpartisan advocate for voter access and civic education for over a century — and their partnership with OPL reflects shared values that the Friends of the OPL hold dear. As the nation faces pivotal elections ahead, the work of institutions like OPL and LWVO has never mattered more.
As Friends we celebrate this recognition and remain committed to supporting the OPL as it continues to be a cornerstone of our democracy.
Thanks to all the Friends members, donors, volunteers and supporters! You contribute to the important work the Library does through its programming and facilities to support democracy in our community.
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