Pattie Johnston, senior outreach coordinator for the Lawrence Public Library, received the first Professional of the Year for Excellence in Senior Advocacy Award from Lawrence Area Partners in Aging, a coalition of businesses, agencies, retirement communities and aging advocates.

Johnston received the award Sept. 20 in recognition of her involvement in many areas of senior and aging issues, including her development of programs and services for older library patrons, and her collaboration with other organizations.

Johnston is the president of the local chapter of AARP, and a member of the board of directors of Douglas County Senior Services.