TOMS RIVER – Each year the New Jersey Library Association (NJLA) recognizes the achievements and professional contributions of a librarian whose work enhances the image of librarianship, exemplifies the value of libraries, and promotes an accessible, positive climate in libraries.
Ocean County Library is excited to share that Librarian Diane Musella, Adult Services Supervisor, has been named the 2025 NJLA Librarian of the Year.
Diane received this great honor for her dedication to the library, steadfast belief in the value of libraries, and her passion for supporting the LGBTQ+ community.
After receiving her award, librarian Diane Musella shared “I feel honored to be chosen as the 2025 NJLA Librarian of the Year. I believe in libraries; I know that library staff are what propel them towards the future and make so many things possible. At Ocean County Library, I strive to help build community and transform the lives of our patrons with knowledge and information. I truly believe that libraries can change lives.”
Diane’s nomination has garnered significant support and excitement throughout Ocean County and within the library system.
New Jersey Library Association (NJLA)
Diane was nominated for the award by a group of her colleagues at the Ocean County who said, “Throughout her 13 years of service, Diane has continuously demonstrated her commitment to Ocean County Library’s mission and making our library the best it can be. Diane is innovative, passionate, and fully dedicated to excellent library service. Her passion for supporting the LGBTQ+ community is the cornerstone of her mission as a librarian and she has transformed LGBTQ+ services here..”
“Diane worked her way up through the Ocean County Library system earning the respect of her colleagues for her strong work ethic, leadership ability and genuine care for our community and staff; She makes everyone feel welcome at the library and the Librarian of the Year award could not have gone to a better person,” said Library Director Susan Quinn.
“Diane Musella’s recognition as Librarian of the Year by the New Jersey Library Association is a proud and well-deserved honor for both Diane and the Ocean County Library system. Her commitment to excellence embodies the very best of librarianship.” said Timothy McDonald, Chair, Ocean County Library Commission.
Ocean County Commissioner Jennifier Bacchione, in attendance at the NJLA Annual Award Ceremony, shared “We are so excited that out of the entire State of New Jersey, Ocean County’s Librarian from our Toms River Branch has been chosen for this award. She is a hardworking individual and this is a well-deserved honor.”
This great honor comes at an exciting time as the Ocean County Library approaches its 100th Anniversary on September 19th, 2025.
It is a privilege to mark our 100th year with this recognition celebrating Diane’s excellence, and her hard work that drives our mission of Connecting People, Building Community, and Transforming Lives forward.
Keep up with Library programs and events at www.theoceancountylibrary.org, and on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, Spotify, and Pinterest.
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