Los Angeles County Librarian Skye Patrick will be among seven recipients of the 2025 James Irvine Foundation Leadership Award, officials announced Monday.
The James Irvine Foundation acknowledged Patrick, the CEO of the Los Angeles County Library, as an outstanding Californian whose work exemplifies “exceptional leadership.” She along with the other recipients will receive a $350,000 grant to support their ongoing work and make lasting impact on their respective communities.
According to the foundation’s website, the award honors individuals and organizations who are making an impact across the state in library services, Indigenous science and food sovereignty, Latina civic leadership, environmental justice, Black maternal health and representation in entertainment.
“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to The James Irvine Foundation for acknowledging the impact libraries have in breaking down barriers and providing a place where everyone belongs,” Patrick said in a statement.
“This award helps celebrate the contributions of libraries nationwide, and we are proud to continue our work to ensure that every person in L.A. County has access to the resources they need to succeed.”
County officials described Patrick’s leadership as instrumental in advancing equitable access to library services for the more than 10 million residents.
The James Irvine Foundation is a private, nonprofit grantmaking organization dedicated to expanding opportunity for Californians. It was established in 1937 by James Irvine II, a member of the Irvine family of real estate developers. It has provided more than $2.7 billion in grants to organizations in the state.
In 2024, the foundation had an estimated $3.3 billion in assets and made nearly $159 million in grants.