Cedar Rapids Librarian Receives National Outreach Award

Michele Prostine is recognized for her leadership in library programs serving older adults.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Philanthropy

A stack of hardcover books rests on a wooden porch railing on a sunny autumn afternoon in Cedar Rapids. — Cedar Rapids librarian Michele Prostine was honored by the Association of Bookmobile and Outreach Services for her senior-focused reading programs. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Association of Bookmobile and Outreach Services has honored Cedar Rapids librarian Michele Prostine with the 2026 Innovation in Outreach Programming: Senior Services Award. This national recognition highlights her work developing initiatives that connect homebound residents with literary resources.

Why it matters

The award celebrates efforts to bridge gaps in library access for older adults who cannot physically visit a library branch. By pairing reading materials with volunteer engagement, these programs foster community inclusion for residents who might otherwise face isolation.

Homebound participants logged over 150,000 minutes of reading during the Summer Reading Challenge. The program was further supported by a seven-figure donation from Bob Allsop for a new library and conference center.

The players

Michele Prostine

She serves as a librarian in Cedar Rapids and coordinates specialized outreach programming for senior citizens.

Association of Bookmobile and Outreach Services

This professional organization supports the development and expansion of mobile and outreach library programs across the country.

First Book

This non-profit organization sponsors the Innovation in Outreach Programming award and works to provide new books to children and seniors in need.

Bob Allsop

He is a philanthropic donor who provided a seven-figure gift to fund a new library and conference facility.

The details

Michele Prostine leads the Books by Mail and Books by Delivery programs, which provide personalized reading selections accompanied by handwritten notes and volunteer visits. These efforts include specialized enrichment activities and large-print tracking logs designed specifically for older adult readers.

The Books by Delivery program officially launched in 2023.
The award was presented at an annual conference on October 14, 2026.

Market Landscape

This initiative follows the pattern established by the Library Services and Technology Act by expanding the reach of public library services to underserved, homebound populations. It positions local library systems to better compete for community engagement metrics by demonstrating high-touch service delivery.

Residents in the Cedar Rapids area may see enhanced availability of specialized services through the expanded library and conference center. Homebound individuals can benefit from increased volunteer interaction and more accessible reading tools designed for their specific needs.

The takeaway

Effective library outreach requires personalized engagement strategies that address the specific social and physical needs of senior residents. Establishing consistent volunteer visit programs can significantly increase participation in literacy activities among homebound populations.