Image: Ren O’Brien (left), Robin Goodfellow “Puck” Malamud (middle) accepting the Samuel Swett Green Commissioner Award on behalf of The Massachusetts Trans Librarian Group at the MA State House next to MBLC Commissioner Jessica Vilas Novas on November 6, 2025.

Samuel Swett Green was a librarian that championed library services for all.  He was often referred to as the “Father of Modern Research Librarians” and believed any one and everyone should be able to ask a librarian for assistance with information.  Green was a founding member of the Free Public Library Commission of Massachusetts, established in 1890, now known as the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC).  Green was also a member of the group that helped found the American Library Association and served as the organization’s president, championing the idea that libraries should be free, inclusive and welcoming to all members of society.

The Samuel Swett Green Award honors a Massachusetts librarian who develops innovative library services and programs to meet the evolving needs of the community and Commonwealth residents. At the MBLC’s 135^th Anniversary, the Samuel Swett Green Award was presented to The Massachusetts Trans Librarians Group, with acceptance remarks made by Ren O’Brien and Robin Goodfellow “Puck” Malamud.  Since its formation, the Massachusetts Trans Librarians group have volunteered their time, emotional energy and professional expertise to provide resources and guidance to library colleagues throughout the Commonwealth.

During this time of widespread book banning, threats to intellectual freedom and censorship of library materials, programs and events, the Massachusetts Trans Librarians group have spoken against discrimination, worked collaboratively on how to foster healthy, safe environments and how to improve Trans inclusion and advocacy in libraries.  The Massachusetts Trans Librarians group created the Library Safety Volunteers to train fellow library workers in community safety and de-escalation to ensure LGBTQIA+ library events and programs are protected. They have worked with The Massachusetts Commission on LGBTQ+ Youth and Library of Congress’ Gender and Sexuality Funnel Project. Their work is brave, and not only serves the LGBTQIA+ community, but celebrates inclusivity for all so that libraries remain a place where everyone belongs.