The Humber Polytechnic and University of Guelph‑Humber Library has received the Advancing Libraries Award from the Ontario Library and Information Technology Association (OLITA) for its work in creating the Ontario Library Makers Discord Group. 

The project began after Val Benigno, Erin Walker, and Ewan Gibson presented at the 2025 OLA Super Conference and connected with Hamilton Public Library and Aurora Public Library to build a shared online community for makerspace staff. The Discord group now has more than 100 members, with Erin, Val, and Ewan serving as moderators. 

Jennie Hamilton and Vaness Marrion‑Merrit (HPL), Kelvin Lam (APL), and Ewan will accept the award on January 30 at the Ontario Library Association awards gala. 

Congratulations to Val, Erin, and Ewan for their leadership and collaboration in growing this province‑wide community.