RUSA Recognizes William Biggs, Library Director, 412th Force Support Squadron, Edwards Air Force Base, as the 2026 RUSA Federal Rising Stars Award winner
“As a prior service member, there is no greater professional joy for me than serving the U.S. service members. I earned my first degree utilizing a military library and its resources. Now, I get to proctor those that will do the same. I used to ask librarians what reference material, databases, and periodicals I needed to succeed. Now, I’m helping today’s generation find those same resources. It’s an honor and a privilege to be recognized by RUSA as a Federal Rising Star for doing what I love.” – William Biggs
“FAFLIG proudly congratulates William Biggs as the 2026 RUSA Federal Rising Star Award recipient. William’s dedication to federal library services and commitment to advancing the profession exemplify the excellence this award honors. FAFLIG celebrates his contributions and looks forward to the continued impact he will bring to our community.” – Award Committee statement
William Biggs serves as Supervisory Librarian at Edwards Air Force Base, where he has significantly elevated the profile of federal library services within the Armed Forces community. His leadership of a comprehensive technology refresh, which introduced Study Pods, computers, laptops, and a 3D printer, transformed the base library into a modern learning hub that directly demonstrates the value of information science to military personnel and leadership. William secured professional development and leadership program opportunities for his staff, completed the Vanguard Leadership Program himself, and cultivated strategic partnerships with the Technical Library, the Exceptional Family Member Program, and the Finance office, expanding the library’s reach and institutional standing across the installation. A Marine veteran who earned his first degree using a military library, William brings a personal commitment to ensuring service members access the same educational resources and opportunities he once relied on. His work bridges federal library service, digital content management, and community outreach in a way that advances RUSA’s mission and strengthens the reputation of the information profession within the federal and Armed Forces sectors.
Elan Birkeland is FAFLIG’s representative on the RUSA Achievement Awards and Grants Committee.