NMLA has been giving awards since
1957 to honor those who have made an important contribution
on behalf of New Mexico libraries.
Besides the grants and scholarships awarded each year, NMLA presents five awards each year at the NMLA Conference.
These awards are: Community
Achievement, Honorary Life
Membership, Legislator of the Year, New
Mexico Library Amigo, and New
Mexico Library Leadership.
To make a nomination for one of the awards please fill out and submit
this form no later
than December 7, 2008.
The ASL SIG also presents an award to School Libraries, please click here for the form.
Community
Achievement Award for librarians (those certified or with a
degree) for outstanding library service or achievement at the local
level. Also may be given as NMLA's recognition of an award from another
source that has enhanced the library, and to the entire library community;
thus to a local, school, or academic librarian who has received a community,
regional, or national honor.
Honorary Life Membership
Award. NMLA's highest award is given to individuals for outstanding
contributions to the purposes of NMLA, for constructive accomplishment
rather than longevity, not limited to librarians, may be given to anyone
for helping NMLA and/or libraries in New Mexico. Criteria: Significant
contribution to NMLA and its activities throughout the library career.
Scope of activity beyond own work location; achievements and contributions
to NMLA growth are known within the library community, as well as being
recognized by other persons or entities in New Mexico. The 2005
recipient is Linda O'Connell.
Legislator of
the Year Award is given to a New Mexico state legislator who
has demonstrated leadership in the advancement of libraries throughout
the state. Criteria: Notable legislative contribution to library funding,
the issues of intellectual freedom, and/or access to library services.
The 2005 recipient is Representative Rick Miera.
New Mexico Library
Amigo Award is made to an individual (friend, volunteer, trustee,
board member, other citizen, or other non-certified personnel) whose
work on behalf of the local library has resulted in significant progress
and/or achievement for that library; or in recognition of work in the
promotion of library service within the state. The 2005 recipient is
Verona Thompson.
New Mexico Library
Leadership Award is made to librarians who have rendered outstanding
service beyond the local community. Criteria: Notable contribution to
the advancement of libraries within the state, known and recognized
in more than one community. Contributions of a nature that bring recognition
and/or enhance the image of libraries in general within New Mexico.
Activities and efforts that have helped other librarians to improve
their service capabilities. The 2005 recipient is Barbara Van
Dongen.
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1957
ANNA K. BROWN, one of the founders of the Socorro Public Library and
its librarian from 1924 to 1963, was presented with the Association's
first Honorary Life Membership Award on April 25, 1957,
during the banquet of the N.M.L.A. annual conference in Socorro. "In
making the presentation … Phoebe Harris, President, lauded Mrs. Brown
for her 35 years of service to the library profession, and presented
her with an orchid." (Socorro El Defensor).
1962
ERNA FERGUSSON, noted New Mexico author, received a special
award from the Association for her work for National Library
Week.
1970
"First Awards Banquet" (see New Mexico Libraries, v. 3, no.
2, pp. 60-61, Summer, 1970)
DOROTHY JENNINGS WATKINS was honored on Friday,
April 17, 1969, with a day denoted as Dorothy Jennings Watkins Day at
the N.M.L.A. annual conference, honoring her as she retired from her
position as New Mexico State Librarian. Mrs. Helen Melton, N.M.L.A.
President, announced the award and presented a scroll, an HONORARY LIFE
MEMBERSHIP in N.M.L.A., and a turquoise and silver necklace.
HELEN FIELD REDMAN, head librarian at Los Alamos
Scientific Laboratory, was named LIBRARIAN OF THE YEAR. A scroll and
an inscribed Nambe platter were presented to her by Jack Key. The award
recognized her "outstanding service to the New Mexico Library Association
and to librarianship in general; the advancement of library services
and sound librarianship; encouragement of New Mexico interlibrary cooperation;
and effective work in interpreting to the various levels of government
the problems of New Mexico libraries. This person has given service
of mind and heart to New Mexico librarianship. She has given value to
that we call professional."
FLORENCE MARTINEZ was honored as TRUSTEE OF THE
YEAR for her efforts in presenting the need for continued Federal funding
of library programs to Senators and Congressmen in Washington, D.C.,
in July, 1969. (See "Mrs. Martinez goes to Washington", New
Mexico Libraries, Vol. 22, No. 3, Fall, 1969). Mrs. Dorothy Rosen made
the presentation in absentia because of the serious illness of Mrs.
Martinez' mother.
BERNARD W. JESTER received an award as a SPECIAL
FRIEND OF NEW MEXICO LIBRARIANS. Arthur L. DeVolder made the award.
1971
MRS. BURTON G. DWYRE received an N.M.L.A. scroll in recognition of her
long service to libraries in the state, in the year of her retirement
from the State Library Commission
1972
MRS. BURTON G. DWYRE was made an HONORARY LIFE MEMBER in recognition
of 30 years of service on the State Library Commission, 1945-1971, and
as Chairman for the 17 years from 1954-1971. (Mrs. Dwyre died in 1980.)
1973
WILLIAM B. O'DONNELL received an HONORARY LIFE MEMBERSHIP for distinguished
service to the libraries in the state. Representative O'Donnell sponsored
the Public Libraries Financial Assistant Act of 1973 in the N.M. Legislature,
and strongly supported the academic library bond issue in 1972. A framed
membership certificate and membership card were presented by Joe Sabatini.
MILDRED BARRETT was presented with the DISTINGUISHED
LIBRARIAN OF THE YEAR award, as she approached retirement as Assistant
Director at the New Mexico State University Library. She had served
as president of N.M.L.A. in 1967-68, and of the Rio Grande Chapter,
Special Libraries Association in 1961-62.
DOROTHY ENGSTROM ROSEN was presented the DISTINGUISHED
TRUSTEE AWARD by Jack Worlton, in recognition of her distinguished service
as a member of the State Library
Commission, and the American Library Trustee Association, a division
of the American Library Association.
PETER HURD, New Mexico Artist, was given a certificate
of appreciation recognizing his DISTINGUISHED SERVICE TO NEW MEXICO
LIBRARIES for 1972-73 by Mildred Neal. He was honorary chairman of Action
for Education, which supported the $10 million bond issue for academic
library materials, passed in 1972.
HELEN SAUNDERS was presented a CERTIFICATE OF OUTSTANDING
ACHIEVEMENT for activities to promote National Library Week. (The year
of this award is in doubt.)
1974
The ARTHUR JOHNSON MEMORIAL LIBRARY in Raton (Betty Lloyd, director)
received the N.M.L.A. IMPACT AWARD (Innovative Methods and Procedures
in Activating Community Trust) sponsored by the Prentice-Hall Publishing
Co. The award was $275.00 worth of books for the library.
1975
OCTAVIA FELLIN of Gallup was named LIBRARIAN OF THE YEAR. Marilyn Fletcher
presented a certificate "with acknowledgement and gratitude for
her many years of dedication to the libraries of New Mexico", during
the Socorro conference.
SHIRLEY HOUSTON, Atrisco Elementary School, Albuquerque,
received the 1974-75 IMPACT AWARD sponsored by the Prentice-Hall Publishing
Co. She received $150.00 in books for her library.
1976
KATHLEEN M. PUFFER, Assistant Chief of Library Service, V.A. Hospital,
received the N.M.L.A. IMPACT AWARD sponsored by the Prentice-Hall Publishing
Co. She received $150.00 in books for her library.
1977
C. EDWIN DOWLIN was named LIBRARIAN OF THE YEAR. He headed the New Mexico
State Library from May, 1970 to July, 1977. The award was presented
during the N.M.L.A./T.L.A. conference in El Paso.
SARAH BURKSTALLER and RUTH KELLY were named TRUSTEES
OF THE YEAR for their activities promoting bond issues for construction
of the new Roswell Public Library.
ELEANOR NOBLE of the University of Albuquerque
received the N.M.L.A. IMPACT AWARD of $150,000 in books for her library.
1979
(Beginning this year, all recipients of major N.M.L.A. awards receive
inscribed Nambe pieces.)
DOROTHY ENGSTROM ROSEN was honored with an HONORARY
LIBRE MEMBERSHIP, in absentia at the conference in Farmington, for her
service to New Mexico libraries, especially as a member of the State
Library Commission for 12 years, 1962-74, and as chairman for three
years. The award was presented to her at her home by Paul Agriesti and
Lois Godfrey, President. (Mrs. Rosen died in 1981.)
1980
ELIZABETH HENDRYSON received the LIBRARIAN OF THE YEAR AWARD. She is
on the staff of the U.N.M. Medical Center Library.
OPAL LEE PRIESTLY was selected TRUSTEE OF THE YEAR,
for her activities on behalf of building programs for Thomas Branigan
Memorial Library, Las Cruces.
1981
BERNARD JESTER, founder of New Mexico Bookbinders, Inc., was awarded
and HONORARY LIFE MEMBERSHIP for his company's contributions to the
Marion Dorroh Scholarship. Mr. Jester could not attend the N.M.L.A.
banquet; the award was presented to his son Phil by Laura McGuire.
EDWARD LUJAN, long-time associate of New Mexico
Bookbinders, Inc., was awarded an HONORARY LIFE MEMBERSHIP for his participation
in his company's contribution to the
Marion Dorroh Scholarship. Jay Johnstone gave a tribute to Mr. Lujan
during the N.M.L.A. banquet; Jeanne Winkles and Joe Sabatini presented
the award at his home.
PATRICIA S. TAFT, former Children's Coordinator
at Albuquerque Public Library, now retired, was the recipient of an
HONORARY LIFE MEMBERSHIP. Mary Penland presented the award to Mrs. Taft
during the banquet.
1982
HESTER MILLER, Fine Arts Specialist at the Albuquerque Public Library,
was awarded the first N.M.L.A. COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD, for bringing
a wide range of cultural events and exhibits to the Main Library.
1983
LOIS GODFREY, Assistant Head Librarian at the Los Alamos National Laboratory
Library, was named LIBRARIAN OF THE YEAR for many activities to advance
library service in New Mexico, both in N.M.L.A. and nationally in the
Special Libraries Association and in the Rio Grande Chapter.
PEGGY KELEHER, member of the Library Advisory Board
of the Albuquerque Public Library for 8 years, and also active in the
Friends of the A.P.L., was awarded the TRUSTEE OF THE YEAR for her activities
in support of getting a bond issue to construct the Juan Tabo Branch
of A.P.L.
OCTAVIA FELLIN, Director of the Gallup Public Library,
was awarded the COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD for numerous civic achievements
and library programs in the Gallup area.
CALLA ANN PEPMUELLER, retiring head of the Technical
Library at the Sandia National Laboratory, and Chair of the State Library
Commission, was granted an HONORARY LIFE MEMBERSHIP for a distinguished
career and notable contributions to librarianship within the state.
1984
JEANNE WINKLES, director of the Lovington Public Library, was named
LIBRARIAN OF THE YEAR for her long-time activities in her own community
and in N.M.L.A. and other library associations.
ELINOR McCLOSKEY, Library Services Coordinator
for the Albuquerque Public Schools, was granted the COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT
AWARD for her activities in promoting effective library service for
the children of Albuquerque.
The FRIENDS OF THE CORRALES LIBRARY group was given
the TRUSTEE OF THE YEAR award for their efforts in fundraising and actual
labor for the construction and expansion of the public library building
in the Village of Corrales.
1985
BETTY LLOYD, Arthur Johnson Memorial Library, Raton, and HELEN MELTON,
Carlsbad Public Library were named LIBRARIANS OF THE YEAR.
J. PAUL TAYLOR, Thomas Branigan Memorial Library,
Las Cruces, trustee, was awarded the TRUSTEE OF THE YEAR.
JULIA HOLLIS, Librarian, Carrizozo Public Schools,
was given the COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD for making the school library
available to the public.
1986
BETTY MEINERS, head librarian at Las Cruces High School since 1961,
received the LIBRARIAN OF THE YEAR AWARD, in recognition for her dynamic
professionalism and numerous awards and activities.
MARTHA LIEBERT, librarian at the Bernalillo Community
Library (recently renamed the Martha Liebert Library), received the
COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD, for her role in establishing and sustaining
library service in Bernalillo.
CAROL KELLERMAN, Santa Fe High School Librarian,
was recognized for winning the A.A.S.L.-SIRS Intellectual Freedom Award
from A.L.A. for her role in a 1983 censorship challenge.
1987
SAMUEL CARNES, Chairman of the Albuquerque Public Library Advisory Board,
and RUTH SIMS, Chairman of the Bernalillo County Library Board, were
awarded TRUSTEE OF THE YEAR awards, for their work on behalf of the
consolidation of the two libraries into the Albuquerque-Bernalillo County
Library System. Mr. Carnes, an Albuquerque attorney and realtor, was
the guiding force on a Mayor's Committee on Library Funding, and later
on the Advisory Board, in suggesting that the merger would enhance library
resources for the entire community. Mrs. Sims was one of the founders
of, and was the librarian of the Bernalillo County South Valley Library,
until her retirement in 1981.
1988
DOLORES PADILLA, Belen Public Library, received the LIBRARIAN OF THE
YEAR AWARD. Ms. Padilla was cited for her work in making the Belen Public
Library a cultural and social center for the community, for developing
and active Friends of the Library association and for her community
outreach work.
WILLIAM RACOOSIN, former president of the trustees
of the Alamogordo Public Library, was named TRUSTEE OF THE YEAR. He
has been pivotal in procuring a 10,000 square foot addition to the library,
as well as raising $20,000 in private donations to furnish the extension.
ELIZABETH WACONDO, winner of the COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT
AWARD, has the distinction of being the first and only librarian for
the Laguna Pueblo. Under her direction, the library has grown from a
shelf books to 5,000 volumes.
CELSA QUINTANA, who is retired from the Espanola
Public Library, also received a COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD. Mrs. Quintana
was cited for her work in acquiring a new center for the library in
1978, and for her innovative programming, including a young people's
filmmaking project as well as a "meet the author" program.
JAVIER VARGAS, Las Cruces, the Dona Ana County
Extension Agent, received a DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD for his contributions
to the advancement of libraries as a person outside the library community.
DWIGHT AND CAROL MYERS received HONORARY LIFE MEMBERSHIPS.
They were honored for their unique contribution to the world of books
and libraries in New Mexico, including the publication of Book Talk,
a review of books about New Mexico.
1989
JOHN HADSELL, the Library Board President of Thomas Branigan Memorial
Library in Las Cruces, received the TRUSTEE OF THE YEAR AWARD in recognition
of his dedication to Branigan Memorial Library, Library Books '88, Trustee
and Friends Round Table, and the New Mexico Friends of Libraries.
ELLANIE SAMPSON, the Director of the Truth or Consequences
Public Library, received the COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD for pulling
together the people and resources necessary to achieve a new building
for the T or C Library, as well as her dedication to Library Books '88,
and her service to NMLA.
J. PAUL TAYLOR, State Representative, House District
33, Dona Ana County, received the newly established LEGISLATOR OF THE
YEAR AWARD for his sponsorship and backing of funding legislation for
libraries, and his history of service to libraries and education in
the state.
SUSAN OBERLANDER, the Director of Northern New
Mexico Community College, received one of two LIBRARIAN OF THE YEAR
AWARDS in recognition of her leadership in the LRC Council and in the
establishment of the New Mexico Consortium of Academic Libraries, as
well as her contributions to the causes of intellectual freedom and
library education, and her service to NMLA.
GEORGE MOREY, the retired Director of the Education
Services Center, Las Cruces Public Schools, received one of two LIBRARIAN
OF THE YEAR AWARDS in recognition of his long-term influence throughout
the state in the areas of library automation, intellectual freedom,
and centralized district-level school library management, as well as
his service to NMLA.
ELINOR McCLOSKEY received and HONORARY LIFE MEMBERSHIP
in recognition of her achievements during a long career as Library Coordinator
of the Albuquerque Public Schools. She has provided guidance and inspiration
for school librarians throughout the state, has given emphasis to the
needs of disadvantaged and underserved users, and served the library
community by her work with Coordinated Library Systems of New Mexico
and the many offices she has held in NMLA.
1990
JOE SABATINI, Albuquerque Public Library, received one of two LIBRARIAN
OF THE YEAR AWARDS.
LOWELL DUHRSEN, New Mexico State University Library,
received the second LIBRARIAN OF THE YEAR AWARD.
CAROL KING, Albuquerque Public Library, received
the TRUSTEE OF THE YEAR AWARD.
TONY WILLIAMS, Valencia, received the LEGISLATOR
OF THE YEAR AWARD.
LOIS GODFREY, retired from the Los Alamos National
Laboratory, received HONORARY LIFE MEMBERSHIP in the New Mexico Library
Association.
1991
MARTHA LIEBERT was awarded HONORARY LIFE MEMBERSHIP for her long and
hard work as the founder of the Bernalillo Public Library. She devoted
many years of volunteer work to build a collection, find space, and
solicit volunteers and financial support.
DONALD DRESP, Library Director at the Thomas Branigan
Memorial Library, Las Cruces, received the LIBRARIAN OF THE YEAR award
in recognition of his statewide leadership and involvement in library
activities and services in such areas as library workshops, community
relations, friends organizations, and civic activities.
THELMA NORD, retired librarian formerly in charge
of the Raton Public Library, received the TRUSTEE OF THE YEAR award
in recognition of long service and support of the Raton community. She
served as a high school librarian and teacher for many years, as a member
of the Raton Public Library Advisory Board, and as an enthusiastic initiator
and supporter of many library projects.
1992
MARY PENLAND, retired from the Los Alamos school system, was awarded
the New Mexico Library Honorary Life Membership Award for her many years
of dedicated work. She was the first elementary school librarian to
be President of NMLA (1980), President and Newsletter editor of NM-AECT,
and conceived the idea and laid the ground work for the Land of Enchantment
Children’s Book Award.
TIMOTHY JENNINGS, Senator from Roswell in Chavez
County was one of the winners of the Legislative of the Year Award.
DAVID TOWNSEND, Representative from Alamagordo
in Otero county was awarded Legislator of the Year Award.
JOYCE ETULAIN, Librarian at the Georgia O’Keeffe
Elementary School in Albuquerque was awarded the Community Service Award.
PATRICIA IRWIN, District Media Specialist of the
Dexter Schools and Albuquerque library volunteer was awarded the Community
Service Award. She was recognized for her outstanding service to the
students at the Dexter School District.
KENNETH MILDER, member of the Los Alamos County
Council, was awarded the Community Service Award for his support of
the local library. His efforts helped to build the new library facility.
He has worked to encourage improvements to the White Rock Branch Library,
recommended implementation of the integrated online library system,
and improved access to library services for the disabled.
DEBBIE SEIBEL, parent volunteer to the school library,
was awarded the New Mexico Library Community Service Award for her contributions
to the Silver Consolidated Schools. For the last ten years, she helped
catalog materials, developed bulletin boards, and assisted in preparing
materials for teachers.
PEGGY SUTER, librarian at Eunice Public Library,
won the New Mexico Library Community Service Award. Among her contributions
are the doubling of circulation in the last ten years and individual
attention to her users.
JAMES WALL, President AMREP Southwest, was awarded
the Community Service Award for his intervention in securing land for
the new Rio Rancho Public Library. The value of the land was approximately
$800,000.
1993
NANCY EBELING, librarian at the Dennis Chavez Elementary School was
awarded the New Mexico Library Honorary Life Membership Award. She was
an active member of the New Mexico Library Association for over twenty
years, was one of the creators of the Land of Enchantment Children’s
Book Award, and served on State Library and State Department of Education
committees.
BENJAMIN J. WAKASHIGE was awarded the New Mexico
Library Leadership Award. Among his accomplishments are providing fax
service for interlibrary loans and working on a project to network Western
New Mexico University’s Library with the Silver City Public Library.
HOWARD MADDOX from Bosque Farms was awarded the
New Mexico Library Trustee of the Year Award. His efforts were very
important for building the new library, and he gave his salary as Municipal
Judge for four years to the Library.
ANTOINETTE BEATTY, Director of the Rio Rancho Public
Library, was awarded the Community Achievement Award. Her contributions
include her dedicated work to pass the bond issue to build a new library.
She also increased her staff to support expanded hours of service.
JUDY ELSTNER, Director of the Estancia Public Library,
received the New Mexico Library Community Achievement Award. Through
her efforts she developed successful special programs to stimulate interest
in reading for children from pre school to high school. Her summer Reading
Program and the Scholastic Book Fair are a success. She also personally
delivers books to senior citizens.
BARBARA K. GARRISON, Director of La Cueva High
School in Albuquerque, was awarded the New Mexico Library Community
Achievement Award. In her school library the number of volumes increased
by 57 percent. In just a few short years her library was fully automated
and an indispensable service to the students and faculty.
RICHARD RUMPF, an Edgewood resident, received the
New Mexico Library Community Achievement Award. He was able to encourage
local residents to donate books and journals to the public library.
When the doors opened in 1991, he had collected over 800 volumes. By
June of 1992 there were 8500 books.
1994
OCTAVIA FELLIN, retired Director of the Octavia Fellin Public Library
in Gallup, was awarded the 1994 New Mexico Library Association’s Honorary
Life Membership Award. When she began working in Gallup the library
only had 5,000 volumes. Fifty years later there were 115,000 volumes.
The Library is now the cultural hub of the city hosting exhibits of
local artists and community meetings.
SHIRLEY HOUSTON received the 1994 New Mexico Library
Leadership Award. She was the school librarian in Atrisco and Navajo
Elementary Schools in Albuquerque. Later she worked in the Albuquerque
Public Library. In her career she has created outstanding programs to
connect children to literature.
JEANE CANFIELD, volunteer Head Librarian in Columbus,
received the 1994 New Mexico Library Community Achievement Award. Her
accomplishments include fundraising, weeding the collections, collecting
large print and Spanish books, and initiating a summer reading program.
JANE KALUTA, Librarian at the Embudo Community
Library in Dixon, received a 1994 New Mexico Library Community Achievement
Award. Her focus has been on the children of the community. She provided
a story hour in the Library and read stories to students at the local
elementary school. Jane has been successful in fund raising ad has earned
her librarian certificate.
VERONICA PEYNETSA, Director of Zuni Public Library,
received a 1994 New Mexico Library Community Achievement Award. Her
accomplishments include successful grant writing and starting the Zuni
History Project where valuable materials were returned to the pueblo
from the Smithsonian Institution.
1995
DAVID TOWNSEND received the 1995 New Mexico Library Legislator of the
Year Award. He was a prime sponsor and strong advocate for the “Collections
and Connections” legislative proposal. He sponsored several bills in
the House of Representatives which provided additional funding to academic,
public school, and public libraries. He also introduced bills to provide
funding for the Palace of Governors Library and the Rio Grande Historical
Collections at NMSU. Representative Townsend is a retired History Professor
from NMSU, Alamagordo.
RUTH FARLEY, a volunteer at several libraries in
the Taos area, received a 1995 New Mexico Library Amigo Award. Among
many of her activities include the cataloging of materials, providing
systems assistance, and clipping newspaper articles for interested people.
Prior to her retirement, she worked 25 years at the Sandia National
Laboratories.
BILL FULGINITI, Executive Director of the New Mexico
Municipal League was awarded the 1995 New Mexico Library Amigo Award.
He helped obtain over $12 million dollars for library projects. He has
been a good friend to New Mexico libraries for many years.
GEORGIA O’KEEFFE FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY ORGANIZATION
received a New Mexico Library Amigo Award for 1995. They won the award
for their successful efforts on promoting literacy, fund raising, and
library advocacy.
MONTGOVERY PHISTER, a volunteer at the LaFarge
Branch of the Santa Fe Public Library, was awarded a New Mexico Library
Amigo Award. He prepared a spreadsheet to analyze vendor services and
helped develop a database for current acquisitions.
1996
SENATOR STUART INGLE won the 1996 New Mexico Library Legislator of the
Year Award. He was instrumental in getting funds for the Portales Public
Library. His first bill made available funds to purchase the property
and hire an architect. The second bill covered the building project,
and the third bill will be for remodeling the existing building.
STEPHEN J. ROLLINS, Associate Dean of Library Services
at the University of New Mexico Library, won the 1996 New Mexico Library
Leadership Award. He is instrumental in helping to automate and to network
all libraries in the state. He helped negotiate a contract for 24 libraries
to acquire a site license to FirstSearch. He is very active in several
state organizations.
ELLANIE SAMPSON Director of Libraries at Truth
or Consequences, won a 1996 New Mexico Library Leadership Award. She
is instrumental in the growth of the Library in Truth or Consequences
and has actively worked with public in New Mexico. She has written successful
grants to obtain equipment for the schools. She is very active in the
New Mexico Library Association and served as treasurer and on numerous
committees.
JUDY ARMSTRONG won a 1996 New Mexico Library Amigo
Award. For thirteen years and she still continues to write a column
“ Library Topics” for the Roswell Daily Record. In this column she promotes
library programs and services and prints book reviews written by the
staff of the library. Her column has positively contributed to the local
support of the library.
JEANNE BENARD, volunteer from Lovington, won a
1996 New Mexico Library Amigo Award. She helped in the summer reading
program, reads to nursing home residents, delivers Library materials
to homebound residents, and conducts story programs. She is active in
the Friends organization and has established projects and fundraising
events.
CAROL GAINES, one of the founders of the Friends
of the Thomas Branigan Memorial Library in Las Cruces, won a 1996 New
Mexico Library Amigo Award. She has participated in numerous ways to
support library programs in Las Cruces by orienting new board members,
attending City Council meetings and planning sessions for the automated
circulation system and online catalogs.
V DON WILSON, Vice-President of Instruction at
New Mexico Junior College in Hobbs won a 1996 New Mexico Library Amigo
Award. Through his efforts he has increased the library budget, increased
the number of staff, improved their salaries, and made it possible for
more internet connections.
MARIAN EYER, Acoma Elementary School, won the Winnebago’s
Progressive School Library Media Award for 1996. Her project will encourage
reading, reading comprehension and provide hands-on computer experiences.
1997
CHERYL WILSON was the 1996 recipient of the New Mexico Library Honorary
Lifetime Membership Award. She has served on several state library committees
including the New Mexico Conference of Libraries and Information Services
Planning Conference, the New Mexico Advisory Council on Libraries, Library
Systems 2000, the US Newspaper Project for the New Mexico, and the New
Mexico Statewide Preservation Force. She was President of NMLA 1984-1985
initiated the mini-conference, and has served on numerous NMLA committees.
SENATOR ANN RILEY won the New Mexico Library Legislator
of the Year Award. In 1992 she successfully moved ten pieces of legislation
with appropriations of $1.3 million. In her 2nd and 3rd terms, she was
successful in passing the Technology for Education Act with appropriations
of $3 million.
DR. IRVING A. BUNKIN, volunteer, won a 1996 New
Mexico Library Amigo Award. Dr. Bunkin is well-known for his successful
and innovative fundraising activities. He established the Friends Bookstore
where donated books are sold to the public and he has served as chair
of the Friends of the Santa Fe Public Library Board.
EUGENIA LEA PIERCE won a 1997 New Mexico Library
Amigo Award. Through her work she helped establish the library in Eunice
in 1967 and has been a member of the Board ever since. She has worked
tirelessly to enhance the collection and bring art work to the library.
She s a Charter member of the New Mexico Library Association Foundation.
PAT WIBERG, volunteer from Roswell, was a recipient
of the New Mexico Library Amigo Award. She is instrumental in developing
the “Books on Wheels” project. She recruited 14 volunteers, developed
a brochure, and did the publicity. There are 30 senior citizens that
now have books brought to their homes.
JENNIFER MARQUARDT, Librarian/Media Specialist
at the Inez Elementary School won the Progressive School Library Media
Award sponsored by the Winnebago Company.
1998
LEONARD TSOSIE, State Senator from Crownpoint, is the recipient of the
New Mexico Library Legislator of the Year for 1998. Through his legislative
efforts, he created a special library in Crownpoint. He has advanced
the status of libraries and information technology particularly for
the Native American communities.
MARGARET CHAN BECKER, Director of the Deming Public
Library, is the winner of the New Mexico Library Community Achievement
Award, Her accomplishments include automating the library, improving
relationships with the friends group, developing a brochure, improving
the morale of the staff, improving the interior of the library, and
starting a Spanish language book section and a video section in the
library. She encouraged and supported her staff to become certified.
ELIZABETH GOGGIN, volunteer at Los Alamos, is the
award winner for the New Mexico Library Amigo Award. She is primarily
responsible for starting a used bookstore to raise money for a variety
of projects for the Library. She and her volunteers sell at least a
1,000 books per month.
MARIAN EYER, Acoma Elementary School in Albuquerque,
is the winner of the Progressive School Library Media Award. She will
use the $400 to teach students how to become more effective using CD-ROM
and internet resources.
1999
DANICE PICRAUX, State Representative from district 25 in Bernalillo
County is the recipient of the New Mexico Library Legislator of the
Year Award, 1999. She is a strong supporter of libraries. She sponsored
the Collections & Connections legislation in 1994 and the funding
of library electronics data products in 1998.
MARY LEE SMITH, Director of the Lovington Public
Library is the recipient of the New Mexico Library Leadership Award.
She helped develop the Estacado Library Information Network, a regional
consortium of different types of libraries. She is active in both NMLA
and the New Mexico Municipal League.
ANTONINETTE BEATTY, Director of the Rio Rancho
Public Library is the recipient of the New Mexico Library Leadership
Award. She was instrumental in the development of a consortial partnership
with the Albuquerque/Bernalillo County Library System, which led eventually
in the creation of the Rio Grande Valley Library System and was instrumental
in getting two major bond issues passed for the Library.
MARGE TANSEY, Library Board member of the Farmington
Public Library is this years winner of the New Mexico Library Amigo
Award. She has been very active in the development and growth of the
Farmington Public Library for nearly 50 years.
LYRA GEROY, librarian at Taos High School, is the
1999 winner of the Progressive School Library Media Award. She will
use the $400 to purchase software for the library’s online catalog.
2000
JOSE R. ABEYTA, State Representative from District 68, is the recipient
of the New Mexico Library Legislator of the Year Award. In 1999, he
sponsored Housed Bill 15 that rewrote the fundamental statute governing
the establishment of public library service in New Mexico. In 1994 he
supported “Bonds for Books”, and he was co-sponsor of House Bill 155
that appropriated state funds to provide an electronic periodical database
statewide.
JOE SABATINI, Director of the Main Library of the
Rio Grande Valley Library system is the recipient of the New Mexico
honorary Life Membership Award. He has served on numerous NMLA Committees
including Membership, Bylaws and Procedures, Legislation and Intellectual
Freedom, and Library Development. He served as the NMLA President in
1980-81 and received the Librarian of the Year Award in 1990. He has
lobbied for legislation funding community, public, school and academic
libraries.
HAL BOGART, recipient of the New Mexico Leadership
Award, is a leader in statewide automation projects. Projects include:
an early OCLC project that brought bibliographic applications to selected
public libraries. In 1985, he linked New Mexican libraries through a
bulletin board. From 1990 to 1994, he developed the Bill Locator system,
and in 1994 led both the Internet project and the Native American Interne
Project. In 1998, he brought statewide access to an electronic periodical
database. That year he also served as Acting State Librarian.
INGRID VOLLNHOFER, former reference librarian at
the State library and Head of the Southwest room received the New Mexico
Leadership Award. She initiated the following services to the State
of New Mexico: a toll free 8800 number for statewide access, set standards
for accuracy in answering reference questions, enlarged the newspaper
collection, supported the newspaper microfilming project, and built
an electronic index to the vertical file.
ROBERT UPTON, Public Information Officer for the
New Mexico State Library, is the recipient of the Community Achievement
Award. He has been editor of the Hitchhiker for over ten years. Through
this media he has informed the community about library issues, job openings,
and most recently software and web site reviews.
MAXINE SCHRUP, one of the founding members of the
Capitan Public Library, is a recipient of the New Mexico Library Amigo
Award. She was instrumental in getting financial support through donations,
baked goods sales, and garage sales to help establish the public library.
She became a certified librarian and
trained an army of volunteers. After three years of her work, the Capitan
Public Library serves 800 people.
RAYMOND SCHRUP, is a recipient of the New Mexico
Library Amigo Award. He helped build shelves, designed fliers, posters,
forms, and advertisements for the Capitan Public Library. He donated
$100 every month for the first year to help pay the utility bills.
JENNIFER MARQUARDT, librarian at Monte Vista Elementary
School in Albuquerque is this years recipient of the Winnebago Progressive
School Library Award. With the money from Winnebago she will teach Internet
skills through the school’s intranet. The students will not only learn
to scan artwork, maps, and book characters, but will exchange information
through web pages for each classroom.
2001
MARY ALICE TSOSIE, is a recipient of the Library Leadership Award, for
her strong leadership and advocacy for all Native American libraries
in New Mexico through the Native American Libraries SIG, where she has
displayed enthusiasm, dedication, and the unusual ability to bring diverse
people together to work with unity on a number of projects.
NM TASK FORCE FOR SCHOOL LIBRARIES, is a recipient
of the Library Leadership Award for their groundbreaking work in bringing
awareness of the serious plight of NM school libraries to the attention
of state legislators, school boards, administrators with librarians
of every kind, and for their hard work to draft standards for school
libraries that will guide schools with regards to these vital institutions.
EDWARD C. SANDOVAL, State Representative Sandoval
is the recipient of the New Mexico Library Legislator of the Year Award.
He consistently supported library legislation and programs since he
joined the Legislature in 1983 and during his tenure in the State Senate
in 1980 to 1982. He was a foremost advocate of the 1994 Connections
and Collections legislation package and was the prime sponsor of HB803,
the Public Library Bond Issue. He has introduced NMLA supported public
library appropriations bills and bond issues in 1996, 1998, and 2000.
He has also worked for passage of appropriations for individual community
libraries in New Mexico.
PATRICIA FROEHLICH, Youth Services Director for
the New Mexico State Library, is the recipient of the Community Achievement
Award. She has been involved with the statewide Battle of the Books,
the statewide Summer Reading programs, and the Land of Enchantment Book
Award. Patricia has also been involved with the Roadrunner Reading Program,
the NM Task Force for School Libraries, and the NMLA Conference Program
Committee. Patricia has consistently shown leadership and enthusiasm
which has enriched library services to children.
2002
KAREN HACK, Certified Library Technician at Mesa Public Library in Los
Alamos, is the recipient of the New Mexico Library Amigo Award for her
volunteer work with the Friends. As chairperson of the Friends book
resale shop, Karen spends countless hours sorting and pricing books,
setting up sales, and overseeing book-store volunteers.
BEN D. ALTAMIRANO, New Mexico Senator, is the recipient
of the Legislator of the Year Award. Senator Altamirano was one of the
sponsors of the State Library’s internet Access bill in 1977, has sponsored
bills to help build and remodel libraries in his district and he obtained
funding to replace the aging bookmobile serving the southern region
of the state.
KAREN STABLER, is the recipient of the New Mexico
Library Community Achievement Award. Karen has significantly enhanced
Interlibrary Loan/Document Delivery Services at New Mexico State university,
statewide, nationwide and even internationally. Karen is widely published
and always willing to share her knowledge with her colleagues both in
print and in the many workshops she had conducted over the years.
DR. KATHRYN ‘KITTY’ SHERLOCK, is the recipient
of the New Mexico Library Leadership Award. Kitty’s work as a member
of the New Mexico Task Force for School Libraries and instrumental in
its success in developing strategies and standards for school libraries
that will have beneficial repercussions for years to come.
PAUL A. AGRIESTI, is the recipient of an Honorary
Life Membership in NMLA. Mr. Agriesti is recognized for his tireless
work on behalf of NMLA, as well as his outstanding service in support
of the New Mexico State Library.
GALLUP HIGH SCHOOL LIBRARY was a recipient of the
Outstanding School Libraries Award for a secondary school. They were
the first to win this award.
2003
BEN WAKASHIGE, New Mexico State Librarian, is the recipient of a special
award acknowledging his outstanding efforts on behalf of libraries and
librarians during his tenure as State Librarian.
DAVID R. GILTROW, is awarded an Honorary
Life Membership in NMLA for his many years of support of New
Mexico libraries through his work on the New Mexico Library Foundation,
his support of library legislation and most recently his dedication
to the passage of Bond issue “C” through presentations, serving as Vice-Chair
of the Political Action Committee.
MELVETA WALKER, Director of Golden Library at Eastern
New Mexico University, is the recipient of the New Mexico Library
Leadership Award for her years of service not only to the Golden
Library, but also to the Portales Public Library where she volunteers
and serves on the Friends Board. Melveta’s work on various Amigos committees,
the LEIAN consortium and NMCAL further demonstrate her contributions
and leadership in the library community.
CYNTHIA NAVA, Senator Nava is the recipient of
the Legislator of the Year Award. Senator Nava has
consistently supported library legislation. In her role as co-chair
of the LESC she provided critical support for the Library Bond Bill.
Senator Nava is sponsoring school library legislation, which provides
for permanent funding for school libraries in the 2003 legislative session.
As an Administrator in the Gadsden Public Schools she has worked hard
to obtain one of the highest per capita allotments of library materials
in the state.
KATHLEEN KNOTH, Librarian, UNM Taos Education Center
and Member of the Taos Public Library Board of Trustees, is the recipient
of the Community Achievement Award. Kathleen did an
outstanding job of coordinating the Taos GO Bond committee. She put
together flyers, arranged for speaking engagements all over town and
even appeared on her days off.
DARLENE LOGAN, Instructor at New Mexico Military
Institute and Member of the Roswell Public Library Board of Trustees,
is the recipient of the New Mexico Library Amigo Award.
Darlene chaired the committee for the successful $3.6 million dollar
bond issue to expand and renovate the Roswell Public Library, served
on the building committee, and chaired the Grand Re-opening committee.
Darlene also actively supports the Toles Learning Center on the NMMI
campus. She is a full-time advocate of libraries and intellectual freedom.
NAVAJO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL and DESERT RIDGE MIDDLE
SCHOOL are the recipients of the Elementary Award and the Secondary
Award for outstanding school libraries.
2004
ELIZABETH LAEMMLE, Librarian at Mesa Public Library
in Los Alamos, received the Community Achievement Award.
She has worked with children’s programming including publishing the
Pajarito Literary Review and sponsoring Battle of the Books.
LORI SNYDER, Youth Services Librarian at Rio Rancho
Public Library, received the New Mexico Library Leadership Award.
She is well known for her skits and songs supporting summer reading
programs. She also has been active on the Battle of the Books.
REPRESENTATIVE MAX COLL of Santa Fe received the
Legislator of the Year Award. Not only did he actively
support the 2002 Library Bond Issue, but he was a driving force to make
Vista Grande Public Library a reality. It is the first and only “Santa
Fe County Library” serving 9000 residents.
SANDRA RICHARDSON is the winner of the New
Mexico Library Amigo Award. She has been an active member of
the Albuquerque/Bernalillo County Library Advisory Board for many years.
She was instrumental in getting the Cherry Hills Library built and opened
in 1998, and has successfully lobbied City Council, Mayor, County Commissioners,
and legislators for increased library support.
REPRESENTATIVE J. PAUL TAYLOR of Las Cruces received
the New Mexico Library Treasure Award for his history
of service to libraries and education in the state. In 1985 He received
the Trustee of the Year Award while on the board of Thomas Branigan
Memorial Library, Las Cruces. As State Representative, House District
33, Dona Ana County, he also received in 1989 the newly established
Legislator of the Year Award for his sponsorship and backing of funding
legislation for libraries.
ELLANIE SAMPSON, newly retired from the Albuquerque-Bernalillo
County Library System, received the Honorary Life Membership
Award. In addition to her many years of work with New Mexico
Library Association as Secretary, Treasurer, Vice-president, and President,
she has participated on many committees both as chair and “worker bee”.
She has been honored with the NMLA Community Achievement Award and the
NMLA Library Leadership Award. She also participated in the New Mexico
Municipal League and played an active role in legislative and bond issue
campaigns.
JOHN BAKER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL and TAFT MIDDLE SCHOOL,
both in Albuquerque, received the Elementary and Secondary Awards
for School Libraries.
2005
REPRESENTATIVE RICK MIERA was presented with the
Legislator of the Year Award. Representative Miera
has been exceptionally supportive of school library legislation. This
past session Representative Miera chaired the Legislative Education
Study Committee (LESC) and served on the Public School Capital Outlay
Task Force. In guiding the LESC’s work, Representative Miera has been
an outstanding advocate for school libraries.
LINDA O'CONNELL was given the organization’s highest
award, the Honorary Life Membership. She has worked
in libraries and with the library community for over 30 years. She has
held various positions in libraries around the country. She has been
the NMLA’s Administrative Services Coordinator since 1995. O’Connell
stepped down as Coordinator in March of this year after 10 years of
service to the New Mexico library community.
VERONA C. THOMPSON was given the New Mexico
Library Amigo Award. She began working to establish a new library
in 1999 for the community of Eldorado – the Vista Grande Library. Under
Thompson’s direction the library raised $19,000, which is about 21%
of the library’s total annual budget.
BARBARA VANDONGEN, District Library Coordinator
for Albuquerque Public Schools, received the New Mexico Library
Leadership Award. She chaired the committee that developed
the New Mexico School Library Program Standards, guidelines that all
school libraries in New Mexico can follow to meet students’ needs.
NAVAJO MIDDLE SCHOOL was given the Outstanding
School Library Award.
2006
MARILYN FIFIELD received the Community Achievement Award.
She contacted her public librarians, persuaded her PTA to bankroll the
project, and successfully coordinated a public library visit for 265
children at Susie Rayos Marmon Elementary School.
BERNICE BOYLE, the Library Amigo recipient, became
president of the Belen Friends of the Library. Among the group’s accomplishments
under her leadership are passing a $500,000 library expansion and renovation
through the city council and then the 2005 Legislature. They then raised
over $5,000 to aid the building fund, including the autographed Harry
Potter book raffle. They have seen their Friends group grow from 50
members to over 200.
KATHY BARCO received the Library Leadership Award.
She is in her fifth year as Youth Services Coordinator at the New Mexico
State Library.
CHARLENE GREENWOOD, the Honorary Life Awardee, has
been a very active member and officer both of NMLA and NMLF, and encouraged
our affiliation with Mountain-Plains Library Association.
NM SENATOR CARROLL LEAVELL was awarded Legislator of the Year.
He has demonstrated a concern for education, having served on the Board
of Directors for the College of the Southwest, and for 27 years the
Woolworth Community Library. He was instrumental in forming the Estacado
Library Information Network Consortium, and as a legislator has been
a strong advocate for library funding and General Obligation Bonds.
U.S. REPRESENTATIVE TOM UDALL was named New Mexico Library
Treasure. Representative Udall was a very vocal supporter of
library privacy and library records over the last few years’ debates
on the USA Patriot Act. Librarians across the nation are grateful to
him for his activism on this issue as well as his continual advocacy
throughout the years.
This year’s Follett Award schools are:
Arroyo Del Oso Elementary School, Librarian: Becky Murray
The library has evolved into a place where reading is celebrated, and
research and learning are encouraged with materials that are current.
Socorro High School, Librarian: Marian Royal
“Prior to the spring semester of 2005, very few students utilized our
library and even fewer ever checked out books. Since that time, our
circulation statistics have almost tripled and library use has soared.
We have no fewer than 20 students in the room and more than 50 at peak
times. This is a four- to ten-fold increase from last year. “
James Monroe Middle School, Librarian: Cristi Bikhazi
In addition to the library's advanced literature collection, its outstanding
staff and technological resources enable the JMMS Library to be exceptionally
multi-functional and engaging for students as well as faculty.
Marion Dorrah winner, Victoria Minnick
She worked as a student aide until her graduation from NMSU in December
1997 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History. Shortly after, she was
hired full time as the Lending Librarian for the NMSU Interlibrary Loan
Department. She earned an Associates of Applied Science Degree in May
2004. In August 2005 Minnick began her studies for Master of Library
Science degree from the University of North Texas.
College scholarship winner, Elsie M. Tapia
Elsie has worked with Luna Community College, in Las Vegas, NM, for
25 years. Most of her tenure there has been in the Learning Resource
Center, and cross-trained at Circulation, ILL, Reference, Library Services,
Computer Lab, Acquisitions, Audio Visual Services, as well as Office
Specialist for Acquisitions, her current position.
2007
The Honorary Life Award was presented to THADDEUS BEJNAR. Thaddeus Bejnar has ended up back where he began. His first library job was a volunteer shelver at the Socorro Public Library, age 10. Today, Thaddeus is Socorro Public's Reference Librarian, having returned home to enjoy his parents' golden years. While an undergraduate at USC, Thadd worked in the Education library, occasionally reshelving after earthquakes. At Georgetown law school, he wrote the library's Lexis manual, since he monopolized their only machine.
After a detour for the practice of law at Zuni, Thaddeus returned to the fold in 1984 as Legal Research Librarian at UNM, simultaneously getting his MLIS at UT Austin. He then became the NM Supreme Court State Law Librarian and remained so for 18 years. In Santa Fe, Thaddeus worked to bring the law to the people. He lad the American Association of Law Libraries in instituting the electronic provision of court opinions, published the nation's first State Statutes on CD-ROM, and, with Records and Archives, he developed an electronic imaging system for public records.
From his position at the capitol, Thaddeus got to draft legislation, including the NM Library Privacy Act. Nationally, Bejnar has served as parliamentarian and currently chairs the ALA Constitution & Bylaws Committee. For NMLA, Thadd co-chaired the Legislation & Intellectual Freedom Committee, was their ALA Counselor for seven years, and the bedrock of the Finance Committee. After serving two terms as Library Foundation trustee, he remains their legal consultant.
The Library Leadership Award was given to OMAR DURANT. Although he's manager of Albuquerque Public Schools' library services, Omar Durant extends his sage influence far beyond this city. As co-chair of the New Mexico Task Force for School Libraries, Omar is articulate and enormously influential in assuring that School Library Material Funds support teacher-librarians, their collections adn programs statewide.
As chair of the NMLA Legislation & Intellectual Freedom Committee, Durant has led the way through each G.O. Bonds cycle. He excels in fostering and maintaining productive relations with local and state representatives, thus benefiting all our libraries. Contributing from his numerous posts throughout a lengthy career at APS, Omar Durant has earned colleagues' high praise: "A leader tremendously well-respected by all!"
KATHRYN ALBRECHT and CHERYLL HARTWIGSEN received the Community Achivement Award.
Kathryn Albrecht is a 23-year member of NMLA. She joined the Harwood Library in Taos just as it earned bona fide "public" status. A UCLA English graduate, her administrative support post was then called "secretary/bookkeeper." She helped plan, build and outfit Taos' new public library, enjoying her paraprofessional status for the variety of its roles. Twice Albrecht was interim director in 17 years at Taos Public and co-coordinated the 2000 NMLA annual conference there.
In a move to academia in 2001, Kathy became Head of Circulation at New Mexico Tech Library. She founded Socorro's ongoing Peace Vigil, is campus advisor to Students for Progressive Action and pens a global issues column for community newspapers. Albrecht, a State-certified Librarian I, served two terms as NMLA treasurer. Kathy's librarianship has sweetened her communities, from the back offices to the front desk.
Cheryll Hartwigsen became the first full-time librarian at Bosque Farms Public after a dozen years teaching school. She initiated automation and building the library's second phase. She coordinated countless spaghetti dinners of 300 plates per year for that library! She then joined Los Lunas Public Schools, automating Tome and Parish Elementary libriaries as she inspired automation across the district.
The library at the new Valencia Elementary became Cheryll's a decade ago, plus she's been "district leader" for Los Lunas' 13 libraries, publishing their Library Curriculum. Her pet project with the PTA has landscaped Valencia and built its playground. Long time member of NMLA's Advocacy for School Libraries SIG, Hartwigsen helped develop the Reading & Information Literacy Standards & Benchmarks template, powerfully impacting children far beyond her adoring community.
NMLA Legislator of the Year was given to JANICE ARNOLD-JONES. A third-term State Representative, District 24, graduate of both Albuquerque High and UNM, Janice Arnold-Jones demonstrates a deep understanding of the import of libraries through her extraordinary legislative effectiveness. In two past sessions, Arnold-Jones secured $374,000 in capital outlays for school and public libraries.
In this year's session, Arnold-Jones' "Rural Library Development Act of 2007" addressed materials, equipment, furniture, training and tech support for rural library staff. Additionally, it strengthened the New Mexico Group Catalog, the Magazines Online program, and advanced rural libraries' connectivity to high-speed Internet.
This year’s Follett Award/ASL-SIG schools are:
Conlee Elementary, Las Cruces, Librarian: Diana Youngren
In 2000, the average age of a book here was 1981. Today, with the support of its principal, G.O. Bond monies and Title I, the Conlee Elementary collection's average age is 1995. A new library has been built! And the librarian has formed a collaborative team with the teachers in support of their curriculum. The library is now open one day a week for children's parents to enjoy, plus it now opens mornings before school for reading -- and 15 to 20 kids show up each morning!
Silver City High School Library, Librarian: Catherine McMillan
Five years ago, "Silver High" hired a certified library media specialist and, WOW, have changes been made! The library has improved its collection, extended its hours, opened a Media Center for classes' research, and opened its doors to the community. Now meeting @ the Library: ESL, Parent Advisory, Career & College nights, staff workshops, Special Ed, Juvenile Probation & Parole tutoring, Literacy Link tutors from the public library, and community non-profits.
2008
Alison Almquist of Albuquerque received the Honorary Life Membership
Award, NMLA’s highest award. Almquist works at Zia Elementary School in
Albuquerque, and she was previously employed at four other Albuquerque
elementary schools and Los Lunas Middle School. She has made significant
contributions to NMLA throughout her professional career, serving as
president, chair of the Advocacy for School Libraries special interest
group and as chair of several other committees. She also represented
school librarians at the national level on the board of directors and
affiliate assembly of the American Association of School Librarians.
Susan Pinkerton of Las Cruces was awarded the New Mexico Library
Leadership Award. As the director of the library science program at
NMSU-Doña Ana Community College, she developed an online curriculum
leading to an associate of applied science degree and a certificate of
completion in library science skills. The program is recognized and
highly regarded nationwide, and its graduates and students hold positions
in libraries in New Mexico and beyond. Pinkerton is active in NMLA, and
she has also received awards from the American Library Association and the
Mountain Plains Library Association.
State Senator Bill Payne of Albuquerque received the Legislator of the
Year Award. Senator Payne has been a strong advocate for New Mexico
libraries. He has supported New Mexico’s general obligation bond issues
for libraries, as well as school library material funds for public schools
throughout the state. He sought special capital outlay funding for the
Eldorado Cluster in the Albuquerque public schools. New Mexico libraries
have benefited from his support.
Allen Stenger of Alamogordo was awarded the New Mexico Library Amigo Award
for his activities with the library friends groups of the Alamogordo and
Tularosa public libraries. Stenger founded the Alamogordo Public Library
Foundation to raise private funding for a new library building, and has
served as foundation president. He was co-chair of the bond campaign for
the Alamogordo library, editor of the library friends newsletter and the
membership chair for the friends. He was also active in getting a new
public library and a library friends group started in Tularosa. He
created and hosts a monthly radio program, “Focus on Libraries,” on
KRSY-AM radio.
Cordelia Hooee of Zuni received the Community Achievement Award. Hooee
worked her way up from library aide to assistant librarian at the Zuni
Public Library. After holding positions in other libraries and the
publishing industry, she earned an associate’s degree in library media at
NMSU-Doña Ana Community College. She was hired as the librarian at the
Zuni Public Library, and is pursuing her bachelor’s degree with plans to
go on to a master’s degree.
This year, NMLA held a contest for a new logo. James Carpenter of
Farmington was the winner of the $1,500 award, and his logo was displayed on a banner at the NMLA awards dinner. Carpenter’s logo design, which was
submitted through the Farmington Public Library, was selected from a field
of more than 200 entries.
Debi Croney of Los Alamos received the Marion Dorroh Memorial Scholarship.
Croney, who works at the Mesa Public Library in Los Alamos, is working on
a master’s degree in library and information science at the University of
North Texas. The Dorroh scholarship provides $2,500 for study toward an
advanced degree at a library school accredited by the American Library
Association.
In addition, three awards were made from the NMLA College Scholarship
Fund. Breezy Gutierrez of Anton Chico, a middle school science teacher,
is pursuing an associate’s degree in library media at NMSU-Doña Ana
Community College. Teresa Martinez of Peralta, who works at the South
Valley Library in Albuquerque, is enrolled in the library media specialist
program at the University of New Mexico. Isabel Leyba of Santa Fe, who
works at the Santa Fe Public Library, is attending the library science
program at NMSU-Doña Ana Community College. The NMLA college scholarships
provide up to $1,500 for each award winner to pursue undergraduate work
toward an associate’s degree in library science.
The NMLA Advocacy for School Libraries special interest group announced
that two New Mexico schools had received the Outstanding Library Award.
Barbara Moulds accepted the award in behalf of the library at Seven Bar
Elementary School in Albuquerque. The Seven Bar library, which currently
has more than 18,000 titles serving 850 students, holds regular book fairs
and family literacy nights. Linda Keulen of Roosevelt Middle School in
Tijeras, accepted the award in behalf of the school library. The
Roosevelt library is the hub of its small town, serving 500 students and
hosting a variety of community events.
