A child’s world is built from stories and imagination.
Behind every book is a librarian who kindles the spark to dream, explore, and grow. The Harsha Parekh Librarian Awards (HPLA) celebrates the passion and dedication of children’s librarians and library builders across India.
Every child deserves the chance to fall in love with reading, and librarians turn that into reality.
Their role goes far beyond bookshelves. They create safe and vibrant spaces where children can freely explore, discover, and build a deep connection with stories.
Through carefully chosen books and thoughtful activities, librarians offer more than just stories.
They create spaces where children are free to dream and to truly be, without any fear or judgment. Even with limited resources, their boundless care and dedication transform learning into an adventure, guiding young minds toward growth and discovery.
Award
Categories
Please note, that the winners of the Harsha Parekh Librarian Awards 2026 have been announced. The nomination window is currently closed .
Harsha Parekh
School Librarian Award
To recognize outstanding school librarians who demonstrate excellence in service, innovation in library programs, and a strong commitment to student learning and nurturing a love for reading.
Harsha Parekh
Community Librarian Award
To honor exceptional community librarians who have made a significant impact through inclusive services, innovative programming, and meaningful community engagement to develop a love for reading among children from the community.
Organisation Championing Children’s Libraries Award
To recognize and honor an organization that has made a significant, sustained, and innovative contribution to library program building, professional practices, and the development of the broader library and reading ecosystem.
Our
Story
An initiative of H T Parekh Foundation, the Harsha Parekh Librarian Awards (HPLA) celebrates the passion and dedication of children’s librarians and library builders across India.
Born from the belief that librarians light the way for children to discover the love of reading, HPLA honors those who create welcoming places where young minds can imagine, learn and belong.
Named after late Professor Harsha S. Parekh, a pioneering librarian and mentor, this award honors a life dedicated to opening doors for learners at every step.
Prof. Harsha S. Parekh dedicated over three decades to reshaping libraries and expanding access to knowledge across India.
Born into a family of bankers, Prof. Parekh charted her own course in the world of education. She spent her career at SNDT Women’s University, where she also headed the SHPT School of Library Sciences and helped establish India’s first independent Faculty of Library Science.
A pioneer in automation, digitization and user education, Prof. Parekh mentored Ph.D. scholars, contributed to the National Knowledge Commission, and advanced women’s capacity-building initiatives. She remained active even post-retirement and helped in reviving Mumbai’s historic People’s Free Reading Room, and supported institutions in education, philanthropy, and preservation.
The Harsha Parekh Librarian Awards carry forward her legacy by honoring librarians who build inclusive spaces for children and young readers from diverse communities.
Our
Vision
HPLA aspires to spark a national conversation about the vital role librarians play in children's lives and communities. It honors librarians not just as keepers of books, but as nurturing guides who inspire learning, creativity, and growth.
The initiative highlights the gentle ways children’s libraries and librarians enrich learning experiences. Rooted in collaboration, HPLA stands for inclusivity, fairness, and respect, embracing diverse voices from all corners of India, whether - rural, urban, semi-urban.
01
Encouraging Equal Participation
We create spaces where every voice is welcomed and valued.
03
Protecting Integrity
and Confidentiality
We safeguard privacy with respect and uphold the highest integrity.
02
Upholding Transparency and Fairness
We act with honesty and fairness to build trust in all we do.
04
Sharing Stories that Inspire Change
We share stories that spark hope and inspire positive action.
Jury
Members
Meet the winners - HPLA 2026
After 275 nominations, 30 shortlists and 9 finalists, the jury announced the names of HPLA winners for the year 2026.
Jai Shekhar
Winner - School Librarian
Saba Khan
Winner - Community Librarian
Organisation for Early Literacy Promotion
Winner - Champion Organisation
Vidyadevi M. Nimbalkar
Special Mention - School Librarian
Thank you for your support & participation
