A Washington librarian has been named the recipient of two area awards. Debbie Stanton, director of the Washington Public Library, was named to the Corridor Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 and a day after receiving the award was notified of a second accolade. Stanton is also the recipient of the Larry Eckholt Award from the Iowa Cultural Corridor Alliance, which is presented to an individual who promotes the arts.

At the 40 Under 40 presentation those awarded are asked to give a three word speech, Stanton shares what she said, “Libraries change lives, thank you.” Stanton added a big part of this was moving the library to the downtown square and being the heart of the community and a cultural center.

Stanton has been the director of the library since October 1st, 2011.