Whatever point you are at in your career – just starting out or a seasoned veteran with decades of experience – I’m sure there are people you can point to as teachers, role models, and mentors. You can demonstrate your appreciation by nominating one of these special individuals for the 2019 ALSC Distinguished Service Award. Any member of ALSC and ALA can nominate any other ALSC/ALA member. Details, including a list of past winners and the nomination form can be found here: http://www.ala.org/alsc/awardsgrants/profawards/distinguishedservice
The criteria are very straightforward: “The nominee should be an individual who has made significant contributions to, and an impact on, library services to children and to the Association for Library Service to Children.” When you read that sentence, who do you think of? And can you think of a few sentences to explain why this person deserves the award? The winner receives a cash award of $2,000 and an engraved pin. Who do you know who deserves to wear that pin?
Do you know other people who have been inspired by this same person? This is a great opportunity to touch base with friends and colleagues and share stories about this special individual. Tell them who you’re thinking of nominating and convince them to fill out an application as well.
To recap, it’s as easy as 1-2-3:
1. Think about someone who has inspired you and made you the great librarian you are today.
2. Write about the reasons this person deserves recognition from ALSC, and fill out the online form.
3. Convince other friends and colleagues of your nominee to submit their own forms.
Start now – the deadline for nominations is December 1, 2018.
This year’s winner will be announced at the 2019 Midwinter Meeting in Seattle. Maybe it will be your nominee!
–Judy Zuckerman, Distinguished Service Award Chair
This post addresses the following ALSC Core Competencies: VII. Professionalism and Professional Development.