Octavia E. Butler Magnet Middle School (Photo – PUSD)
The library at Octavia E. Butler Magnet Middle School has earned national recognition as a finalist for the 2026 National School Library of the Year Award, one of the highest honors for K–12 school library programs in the United States.
By News Desk
Presented annually by the American Association of School Librarians (AASL), the award recognizes school libraries that serve as centers for literacy, innovation, collaboration, and student achievement.
For Pasadena Unified School District leaders, the recognition underscores the vital role school libraries play in preparing students for success both inside and outside the classroom.
“This national recognition is a tremendous honor for our school community and a testament to how PUSD educators inspire students to explore and create,” said Pasadena Unified School District Superintendent Elizabeth Blanco, Ed.D. “The Octavia E. Butler Library exemplifies our commitment to providing learning experiences that strengthen literacy and foster a lifelong love of learning. We congratulate librarian Natalie Daily for her leadership and dedication to OEB students.”
The AASL described the library as “a bold, mission-driven program deeply woven into the academic, cultural, and emotional life of the school community,” praising it as a hub for literacy, interdisciplinary learning, student voice, family engagement, and community partnerships.
At the center of that success is librarian Natalie Daily, who has cultivated a culture of reading and inquiry through initiatives including gateway books, place-based learning, and student leadership opportunities.
“Our library is built on the belief that every student deserves opportunities to discover stories that inspire them, information they can trust and navigate, and experiences that help them see themselves as creators and future leaders,” Daily said. “Being recognized as a national finalist is an honor that reflects how essential the library is to our school community.”
Named after acclaimed Pasadena-born science fiction author Octavia E. Butler, the school’s library extends learning well beyond traditional library services. Students participate in signature programs such as the annual Science Fiction Contest and Festival, where they meet published authors, scientists, artists, and other professionals while exploring storytelling, science, technology, and creativity. The library also provides free books and publishing opportunities, helping students grow as readers, writers, and creators.
According to the AASL, those efforts have transformed the library into “the heartbeat of the school community,” making it a national model for how school libraries can elevate student achievement, strengthen school culture, and expand opportunities for every learner.
The recognition comes as Pasadena Unified continues to prioritize equitable access to high-quality educational experiences through programs that build literacy, critical thinking, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning.
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