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Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled Librarian Earns Statewide​ Award

​​Marketing and Outreach Librarian Ashley Biggs was honored by the Maryland Optometric Association

BALTIMORE — The Maryland Optometric Association (MOA) recently named Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled (LBPD) Marketing and Outreach Librarian Ashley Biggs the 2025 recipient of the V. Eugene McCrary Award. The award is presented annually to a person outside of the optometry profession in recognition of significant contributions to the enhancement of eye care for the residents of Maryland. Biggs, who has served blind and low-vision Marylanders at LBPD since 2017, received the award at MOA’s annual membership meeting on September 6.

“Ashley connects with our partners, like MOA, and demonstrates the value of LBPD services to their patients,” said LBPD Director John Owen III. “Building those relationships raises awareness of LBPD services across a broader scope of potential library patrons. I appreciate MOA recognizing Ashley's excellent work with this award. It’s well-deserved.”

MOA praised Biggs’ “amazing” ability to relate to doctors and explain the resources available through LBPD. She has staffed exhibit tables at MOA conventions and provided educational sessions about LBPD resources. Her partnership with MOA is part of LBPD’s marketing strategy to educate professionals who certify LBPD’s application for service. These professionals are trusted advocates for their patients and can point patients to services like LBPD’s.  

"I am deeply honored to receive the V. Eugene McCrary Award," Biggs said. “I want to sincerely thank the Maryland Optometric Association for this recognition. I'm humbled to be associated with Mr. McCrary and excited to be part of this important effort to expand access to quality eye care — and reading — across the state."​

The award is named for former MOA President V. Eugene McCrary. Past recipients of the award include Delegate Joseline Peña-Melnyk​ and former U.S. Senator Barbara Mikulski.

About the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled 
The Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled (LBPD) is a division of the Maryland State Library Agency (MSLA) that provides comprehensive accessible library services to residents of every county in the State. LBPD distributes books in digital audio and Braille in print and electronic formats, and connects with innovative programming, assistive technology training, textbook conversion for college students and locally recorded materials in an accessible format. It has nearly 6,800 registered, active users.