Nearly every day, I find out about another terrific project or program a library is planning. While most of you would agree that providing terrific service and programming is its own reward, awards sponsored by the Wisconsin Library Association could provide you with the recognition you deserve and the financial resources to do even more great stuff!
Library of the Year, Librarian of the Year, Special Services Award–all of these are worthwhile and important, and definitely worth applying for, if a little time-consuming. But there’s one award that has been out there with no applications for a few years–and it is one that nearly every library in our system deserves to win!
WLA/HIGHSMITH AWARD: (Award winner receives $1,000) Libraries of any size or type are eligible for the award, which “recognizes a library’s achievement in planning and implementing an exemplary program or service that has had a measurable impact upon its users. The purpose is to encourage innovation by highlighting collective efforts within a library, wherein staff, administration and volunteers have successfully marshaled the library’s resources to benefit its users.”
Applications are due on June 1! Programs for kids, programs for teens, programs for adults–all are eligible! If you are thinking of applying but are intimidated by the application process, let me know! I’m happy to provide any assistance I can.
Best wishes, I hope to come to the Awards Ceremony at the Annual Conference in October to cheer for one of you!