CANTON -- SUNY Canton's Southworth Library has received the Joseph F. Shubert Library Excellence Award for innovative programs.

The award, given annually by the state Regents Advisory Council, recognizes the achievements of libraries and library groups in improving the quality of library service to users.

"We are very pleased and humbled to receive the 2013 Shubert Award," said Library Director Michelle L. Currier. "I believe it is a significant testament to the creativity, energy and commitment of the Southworth Library Learning Commons staff, and especially the strong team effort toward transforming our services and spaces over the past few years."

The library has spearheaded multiple initiatives to enhance the college's academic environment, including expanding hours and employing cutting-edge technology.

"It was great to learn how nimble and responsive an academic library can be," said the awards committee in a statement. "[Southworth] library was able to expand its hours to 7:30 a.m. to 2:00 a.m., as well as staying open 24/7 during exam periods. The library department combined with the tutoring department to become one library-based learning center for all students on campus."

Southworth has also incorporated technology to meet patron needs, such as supplementing their laptop loan program with an iPad loan program and utilizing quick response codes to help students access online periodicals, databases or e-books.

The award, which will be presented in September, includes a gift of $1,000 from the Friends of the New York State Library.