The Denver Public Library gave Peggy J. Wortham the award, saying she is an exemplary member of the Denver community.

The library says Wortham "is the personification of a community liaison because she is the go-to person for whatever is needed."

Juanita Ross Gray, for whom the award is named, valued the library and service to the community. The Juanita Gray Community Service Award was established in 1987 in her honor. Formally, the library presents the honor to a person who has made an outstanding contribution to the Denver-metro area and who has exemplified high-minded ideals for the citizens of Denver.