Largo City proclaims National Library Week; library staff honored for service

The Largo City Commission proclaimed the week of April 20 as National Library Week at its April 21 meeting and invited residents to use and support the Largo Public Library.

Eileen Valdez, borrower services manager at the library, told the commission the week highlights libraries’ roles in literacy, job search assistance and lifelong learning. “Today, we're also celebrating the hundred and tenth anniversary of our library,” Valdez said, and noted outreach services including a bookmobile and home delivery for homebound residents.

Valdez highlighted two staff honors: Kathryn Kelly, community services librarian, received the Mary J. Brogan Leadership Award from the Florida Literacy Coalition; Library Director Casey McPhee was recognized as 2026 Administrator of the Year by the Florida Library Association. She also described the library’s reading courtyard, certified as a butterfly and pollinator garden, and programming that ranges from English-language learning to technology classes.

The commission’s proclamation, as read at the meeting, encouraged residents to obtain library cards and to support volunteer and outreach efforts that keep library services accessible. City staff noted the library’s role in providing free museum passes and other public resources.

The library’s anniversary and awards were presented as part of a ceremonial agenda item; no formal action or vote was required. The library will continue scheduled programming and outreach, and staff invited commissioners and residents to upcoming events tied to National Library Week.