March 2, 2026 – Library Journal (LJ) today announced that Harris County Public Library has been awarded the seventh annual Jerry Kline Community Impact Prize. Developed in partnership between the Gerald M. Kline Family Foundation and LJ, this award recognizes the powerful synergy that results when a library works closely with both its local government and its community.
To honor its exemplary record, the library will receive $250,000 from the Gerald M. Kline Family Foundation and is showcased in LJ’s March 2026 issue, available in print and online.
"Harris County Public Library exemplifies how libraries become important contributors through partnerships and close relationships with their community," said Gerald (Jerry) Kline, CEO of the Gerald M. Kline Family Foundation.
With 27 locations spanning 1,777 square miles, Harris County Public Library (HCPL) serves the diverse communities of unincorporated Harris County and its municipalities, delivering vital services that strengthen families and expand opportunities. From providing parenting resources for young families and delivering books to incarcerated teens to helping aspiring new Americans prepare for and pass their citizenship exams, HCPL connects residents to the tools they need to thrive.
By honoring the character of its communities while maintaining consistent, high-quality service, HCPL demonstrates steadfast leadership and an unwavering commitment to intellectual freedom and equitable access. In recognition of its holistic approach to literacy and lasting community impact, HCPL has earned the 2026 Jerry Kline Community Impact Prize, awarded in partnership with the Gerald M. Kline Family Foundation.
"The Jerry Kline Community Impact Prize is a tremendous honor that recognizes the commitment and work of Harris County Public Library in serving the community to support lifelong learning at every stage of life through partnership and collaboration," said HCPL Executive Director Edward Melton. "This award reflects the powerful impact we can achieve through building sustainable, resilient communities across the county."
"Among the many excellent libraries doing important work to champion literacy and support the broad range of needs within their communities, Harris County Public Library's deep commitment to service and collaboration stood out. We're so pleased to partner with the Gerald M. Kline Family Foundation to uplift their work and celebrate Harris County Public Library's impact," said Hallie Rich, Editorial Director of LJ and School Library Journal.
Columbus Metropolitan Library, OH, and Union County Library System, SC, were named as honorable mentions and are also profiled in the March issue of Library Journal.
Founded in 1876, Library Journal is a trade publication serving librarians and library workers. Sharing important news and perspectives that shape the field, surfacing best practices and innovations to invest in, identifying emerging leaders, guiding purchasing decisions, and acting as an advocate for librarians and libraries, Library Journal has been leading the field through the great changes and innovations required to keep libraries strong for 150 years.
The Gerald M. Kline Family Foundation, based in Emeryville, CA, has provided millions of dollars to philanthropic causes since its inception in 1999. One of its focuses is libraries.