Northampton librarian emotional after winning coveted award

A librarian admitted she became “a bit emotional” after winning a coveted award for her profession.

Julie Broadbent, who works at Northampton International Academy, received the 2025 Secondary School Librarian of the Year Award.

The School Library Association, which runs the awards, praised her for her contribution to the profession and school community.

Ms Broadbent, from Northampton, said: “We do so much to support our young people and obviously reading is the most important thing and the value of it is really important.”

She has been a school librarian for 25 years helping thousands of children with their literacy skills and to develop a passion for reading.

“I don’t think you could do this job if you didn’t love reading, because you’ll get found out by the students,” she said.

The School Library Association said Ms Broadbent had received the award for her work “creating a culture of positivity”.

“Julie has developed the school library into a welcoming safe space, housing a diverse collection that reflects the whole school community,” it said.

Executive head teacher for Northampton International Academy Martin Serrão described how Ms Broadbent had a “unique ability to connect with pupils, understand their individual needs and inspire a lifelong love of reading”.

“Many students have shared stories of how Julie has helped them discover new interests, overcome challenges, and develop a greater confidence in their academic abilities,” he added.

The school had recently joined forces with The McCarthy-Dixon Foundation as part of an intergenerational stories project where students meet with older people to share tales.

“It was probably one of the best things I have done as a professional librarian,” Ms Broadbent added.