Huntsville, Texas – Windham School District’s Library Services Administrator Jennifer Smock was named Best Librarian in The Huntsville Item’s 2026 Best of Readers’ Choice Awards, a community-driven recognition celebrating outstanding local professionals, small businesses and organizations.
Smock was honored during The Huntsville Item’s “Best Of” awards luncheon held May 28 at Sam Houston State University’s Small Business Development Center. The Readers’ Choice Awards highlight excellence across a variety of categories, with winners selected through votes cast by members of the Walker County community, reflecting the voices and appreciation of local residents and recognizing those who stand out in their respective fields.
“This award is especially meaningful because it reflects that people recognize and value the work being done to promote literacy and access to information within our libraries,” Smock said. “I’m blessed to work alongside an amazing team, and it’s incredibly rewarding to be a part of helping patrons develop a passion for reading and learning. This recognition also highlights the important role librarians play in supporting growth, education and opportunity.”
As Library Services Administrator with Windham, Smock oversees library operations across the district, providing students and patrons with consistent access to books, educational materials and literacy resources. Her leadership supports the distribution of library collections districtwide while advancing innovative programming, including the development of book clubs, expanded tutoring opportunities and other initiatives designed to promote engagement and support student success.
“This recognition by the Walker County community is a testament to Ms. Smock’s leadership, innovation and the meaningful connections she builds through library services across our campuses,” Windham Superintendent Kristina J. Hartman said. “The district is incredibly proud of her and this well-deserved honor.”
Windham congratulates Smock on this achievement and celebrates her continued contributions to the district.
ABOUT WINDHAM SCHOOL DISTRICT
Windham School District (Windham) provides academic, career and technical education and life skills programs to eligible students within the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ). With 102 campuses located in prison facilities across Texas, Windham strives to equip students with the necessary education and skills to progress to postsecondary education programs and successfully reenter the workforce within their communities. As supported by the Associated Press (AP) Stylebook, this article includes utilizing person-first language. The district uses terms such as “student” and “graduate,” to describe people incarcerated in TDCJ facilities, building the foundation for personal and professional growth. For media or partnership inquiries, please contact Danielle Nicholes, Communications Administrator, at danielle.nicholes@wsdtx.org.
