At the end of 2017, the Mosholu Library was desperately searching for a children’s librarian to fill two vacancies.  After a months long search by the New York Public Library, Bronx borough director Gesille Dixon hired two librarians and received many thanks from appreciative Norwood parents who depend on the library for education beyond regular schooling.

For Dixon this was just another day at the office serving the nearly 1.5 million residents of the Bronx.

On May 23, Dixon’s dedication to the community was acknowledged with the Fund for the City 2019 Sloan Public Service Award held at the Bronx Library Center.  She also received a check for $10,000 in furtherance of the work she has done with New York Public Libraries in the Bronx.

What makes Dixon so special as a borough-wide director is that she has always taken a grass-roots approach in promoting library services. “I love attending local events so I can learn from the community what they need from their local branch,” said Dixon.

This type of listening has been crucial in helping public libraries stay relevant in the digital age.

“Yes, the library’s main mission is to promote literacy, but it’s no longer just about books,” Dixon points out.  “We offer many lovely resources to promote small business literacy, technology literacy, health literacy.  We’re in the information business.”

During the award ceremony, Dixon’s personal touch in reaching out was highlighted by Chemika Fuller, a student at Bronx High School for Law and Community Service.  “I consider her to be a mentor, Someone who has been so helpful with my education and more,” Fuller said.

Dixon hasn’t specified how the award money will be used but knows it will help promote the library’s goal of engaging with the issues affecting the local community.