The recognition spotlights a middle-school library named for the Pasadena-born science fiction writer Octavia E. Butler — one that pairs free books and student publishing with an annual science-fiction festival. The award is presented by AASL, a division of the American Library Association, and honors libraries that implement the association’s national school library standards. The district called it one of the nation’s highest honors recognizing exemplary school library programs that transform teaching and learning, and said the award recognizes libraries that serve as innovative centers of learning while advancing literacy, inquiry, collaboration and student achievement.
The award has been given since 1963 and is sponsored by Follett Content. In the same 2026 cycle, AASL named Vernon Hills High School in Illinois the national winner, which received a crystal obelisk and $10,000 for its library, according to the association.
At Octavia E. Butler Magnet, which serves students in grades 6-8, librarian Natalie Daily has cultivated what the district described as a vibrant reading culture through practices including gateway books, place-based learning, and opportunities for students to develop their own leadership skills and self-expression. The library provides free books and chances for students to publish their work, and the district said it expands opportunities for students to read in areas that interest them while creating a safe, welcoming learning environment that supports both academic success and student well-being.
Its signature event is the annual Octavia E. Butler Library Science Fiction Contest and Festival, where students meet published authors, scientists, artists and other professionals while exploring storytelling, science, technology and the power of imagination. This year’s festival is scheduled for Friday, March 27, 2026, from 3 to 6 p.m., according to the school.
“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 a lifelong love of learning. We congratulate librarian Natalie Daily for her leadership and commitment to OEB students.”
The association described the library as “the heartbeat of the school community,” according to the district, and praised it as “a bold, mission-driven program deeply woven into the academic, cultural, and emotional life of the school community.” AASL also called the library “a central engine for literacy, inquiry, interdisciplinary learning, student voice, family partnerships, and community connection,” and said it is “a model of how an exceptional school library program can shape school culture, elevate student voice, and create meaningful opportunities for all learners to thrive.”
“Our library is built on the belief that every student deserves opportunities to discover stories that inspire them, information that they can trust and navigate, and experiences that help them see themselves as creators and future leaders,” Daily said.
The school, named for Butler, integrates science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics across its curriculum and offers a STEAM-integrated Spanish dual language immersion program. The district said it is proud to invest in programs that prepare students to become thoughtful readers, critical thinkers and engaged citizens.
“Being recognized as a national finalist is an honor that reflects how essential the library is for the school community,” Daily said.
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