Libraries Work Because We Do! National Library Workers Day, Tuesday, April 4, 2006 ala/apa homecelebration ideasmaterialsrelated links Submit a star!
Celebration Ideas

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VIRGINIA

Becky from an academic library in Farmville, VA, is a Star! Although becky works "behind the scenes" in acquisitions, it is her dedication and hard work maintaining our orders and working with vendors that makes her a Star. Her efficiencies with ordering and cataloging materials provides our patrons with quicker access - especially the ever popular dvds for our students. Her steadfastness provides a positive image for the library. Thanks to Pat for this nomination.

Bunny from an academic library in Farmville, VA, is a "serials Star." She maintains our serials and is so conscientious about making sure they are available for the public as soon as possible and that the periodicals shelves are in tip top order. Her friendly attitude is evident when she's working with the periodicals and someone needs assistance. She helps the patron immediately. Thanks to Pat for this nomination.

Lydia from an academic library in Farmville, VA, is a Star because she works with our archives and is always helpful and ready to answer questions from faculty, staff, students and patrons near and far. She has the institutional memory everyone relies on. Her attitude is always positive and courteous and treats everyone as if they were her top priority. In addition, she wears many hats in the library - she manages the special collections room, organizes special events, does our displays, catalogs archival materials, and is the university's records manager. In addition, she has interviewed well-known virginia authors and is very active in the virginia library association. One wonders how she does it all, but that's what makes her a Star. Thanks to Pat for this nomination.

Suzi
public library in Newport News, VA
STAR BECAUSE she is always helpful and gives well informed opinions on many different genres of books and movies at the West Avenue branch.  From Marianna.

bev
academic library in chesapeake, va
Star because Bev is a star because of her attention to detail. If her colleagues have an innovative idea or a special project bev is right there to help by dotting all the is and crossing all the ts. If you reach for a pencil, chances are bev will be right there to put it in your hand. She's a star that helps others shine.  From beverly.

beth
academic library in chesapeake, va
Star because She has the knack of diplomacy. Not everyone understands the rules of cataloging and why we need to adhere to those rules. Beth has a way of explaining things to other staff that makes a "no, we can't do that" be understood as "by not doing that we're really doing it better". It's her tact and diplomacy that make her a star. From beverly.

tim
public library in newport news, va
Star because Tim is always nice and willing to help whenever anyone is in need. If there's something that i can't find, tim will come from behind his desk to help. He's always professional and pleasant that's greets you with a smile and that makes me go to the library three times a week, knowing that tim is there to give me his undivided attention.  From tracey.

miss tanya
public library in newport news, va.
Star because Miss tanya is certainly deserving of being a library star for her tire-less efforts and energy in assisting patrons of various education levels and age groups in the computer lab. She daily shows an interest in the patrons and is a very,very good listener and communicator. Tanya deserves recognition.  From theodore.

liz
public library    
newport news, va
Star because Mrs. Liz brings to work daily a special aura of positive composure and a high professional standard that is very common-place with the wonderful staff that daily provides circulation and information services to the patrons at main st. Libraary.
Her energy and enthusiasm to assists patrons of all ages and education levels seems to bond her peers.  From theodore.

tina
public library    
newport news, va
Star because Mrs. Tina daily brings a positive approach to her circulation desk position at main st.
She is very friendly and attentive to patrons as they check their materials in and out of main st.
Library. She does not hesitate to be informative about special programs and information services available to patrons. She excels with all age groups.  From theodore.

tony
public library    
newport news, va
Star because Tony consistently goes above and beyond in doing his job and supporting the local patrons. His good humor and smile are always there for others. He works very well with the library members, extremely knowlegable and resourceful. He also informs me via telephone regarding the materials i checked out. He also has become a dear friend of my. When i had my surgrey, tony took the time out of his busy day to check on me. He has a heart of gold. Thanks tony for being my shining star!  From tony.

donna
public library in newport news, va
Star because Such a great person to work with children.

tina
public library in newport news, va
Star because Very friendly and helpful..always a kind word.

bruce
public library in newport news, va
Star because He is extremely helpufl, always very courteous.  From bertha.

la fawn
public library in newport news, va
Star because Ms. La fawn is like a second mother to us kids. We nominated her as my baby sister's son godmother. She always encourage us to read more and excel in what ever we do. She never treats us different because we are poor and live in a bad neighborhood. She has taken me, my sisters and others under wing. She has given of herself to show us a different way of life from what we are use toseeing everyday. She is big on helping people and she is very protective if us and her co workers. We never have to worry about trouble when she is around. She is a peace maker. She don't nothing off anyone but she is cool how she handles it. I wish you had more librarians like to make reading and life fun. She is the star for us.  From sharease.

fawn
public library in newport news, va
Star because Fawn is the most precious young lady i have ever met. The book mobile doesn't come to our community anymore but when it did it was a joy to converse with her. She always had the best humor to make me smile when i felt like giving up. I am fiesty and she knew just how to deal with me without being discouraged. Fawn was the only one that could read my handwriting even when i couldn't read my own. I miss seeing her every friday. It is a joy to see her when i do.
From shirley.

lafawn
public library in newport news, va
Star because Lafawn is a wonderful person and valued in our community for her warm heart and concern for all of us in the east end community. When i fell and hurt my back she made sure she provided me with movies and books each week. Even when she was off she had a selection sent to my home. With most people their job ends at quiting time but not her. She checks on us even after hours and treats us just like family. Lafawn is a star to be recognized.  From alice.

sonya
public library in newport news, va
Star because Sonya goes all out to help any child that comes in the library that needs it. She is very kind and gentle when dealing with preschoolers, school-age children and teenagers. She makes them know that coming to the library can be fun and very educational. The children come and look for her when she is not at work. Her dedication to our children in the library makes her our library star.  From watina.

watina
public library in newport news, va
Star because Of her name. No seriously, she helps patrons with those ills, gets those programs jumping, and even helps me and other co-workers with various projects. Wa'fa'tina you rock!!!  From gwendolyn.

wendy
public library in newport news, va
Star because She has a very hospitable personality when it comes to helping patrons in the lab on the computers, assisting co-workers with projects, and various other specialties.  From gwendolyn.    

gwendolyn
public library in newport news, va
Star because This person goes out of her way to help a patron. Gwen is kind to both the staff and the patron. When patron comes in they ask for her.  From timothy.

gwendolyn
public library in newport news, va
Star because She is 100% helper from the heart. She is dedicated to her job, doing above and beyond the average co-worker. She assists patrons not only with what they are looking for, but much more. She recommends books, videos, and music that people enjoy the most and come back with compliments to her. She also looks out for co-workers when they need an extra hand. She gets freebies and shares them with everyone. She also keeps the pearl bailey candy dish loaded which makes everyone's day a little brighter. She gives homeless patrons resources of where they can get help and encourages the youth to stay focused and tells them about youth programming in the library.  From gwendolyn.
 
valerie
public library in newport news, va
Star because She works very hard at doing a great job in planning adult programs for the grissom library. She listens to her patrons' recommendations and plans and implements interesting programs that draw patrons.  From karen.

elizabeth
public library in newport news, va
Star because She has a wonderful attitude and is very willing to help. She steps in and gets the job done with a smile, no matter what it is!  From karen.

Elizabeth from a public library in Williamsburg, VA, is a Star because Elizabeth has been with the library for 3O years. She has been through renovations, transformations, board members, employees, and administrators. She has guided each and every new employee through the orientation process and welcomed them with open arms into the library family. Elizabeth has always been the "go to person" for any historical fact or background information that might be needed regarding the early days of the library and how it has grown. She also has a true and loyal following in the community. With her long and loyal service here at the library, Elizabeth has worked all public service departments at one time or another. Over the years she has made many long lasting friendships within the community. Elizabeth is the cornerstone of the library. She is "one of a kind" and the person I have looked to Anonymous for advice and guidance a true mentor. Elizabeth is our Star and continues to shine for us all. Thanks to PB for this nomination.

Tina from a public library in Newport News, VA, is a Star because this lady goes out of her way, helping me and other people, always smiling! When I ask her why she does what she does, her reply is always, “Just doing my job!” I wish they had more angels like her on the job. Thanks to Philip for this nomination.

Pamra from a public library in Newport News, VA, is a Star because she is very good assess to the library. She is very helpful to all patrons with anything that is asked of her. I beleive Pamra deserves a Star and so much. Thanks to Belinda for this nomination.

Watina from a public library in Newport News, VA, is a Star because she goes all out to help anybody in the library.  She is very good at her job.  If there is a book to be found,she will find it. She makes sure you go home with something to read.  Her dedication and devotion to ther job shows!  Keep Up the Good Work!!! Thanks to Jeffrey for this nomination.

Sonya from a public library in Newport News, VA, is a Star because she goes the distance to help out the children in the library.  She is very friendly and well like by all.  She does excellent programming with children of all ages.  She is a great asset to the library system. Thanks to Watina for this nomination.

Lydia from a public library in Newport News, VA, is a Star because almost every time my husband and I go to Grissom library when she's there she is very helpful. Lydia always has time to chat and give us suggestions of movies to watch and books for myself to read. Any time I have a question, Lydia is more than willing to find me the answer no matter how long it takes. Thanks to Cathy for this nomination.

Tina from a public library in Newport News, VA, is a Star because Tina is an awesome person. She is very helpful and always cheerful. One day after a difficult day at work, I stopped by the library to check out some items. I selected the items and on my way to check out counter, I dropped the items on the floor making a loud noise. I was a little embarrased at my clumsiness. Tina came over and helped me and had the most encouraging and kind words for me. It really made my day. I needed that at that moment. She is awesome. Thanks to David for this nomination.

Tony from a public library in Newport News, VA, is a Star because of his positive attitude and strong work ethic. He is very knowledgeable and friendly. Thanks to Anonymous for this nomination.

Tony from a public library in Newport News, VA, is a Star because He is always pleasant and friendly. He's knowledgable, and seems to LOVE his job! What a pleasure. Thanks to Nancy for this nomination.

Tony from a public library in Newport News, VA, is a Star because he's a good worker and he cares about his work. He is very funny too. Every time I come into the library to use the computer we're always joking and laughing. He is also a Star because he shines doing his work and other people can see as well. Thanks to Timothy for this nomination.

Gwendolyn from a public library in Newport News, VA, is a Star because she is a wonderful help. Not only does she get her work done but she is a friend to anyone that comes into the library. She gives real life advice and helps. Many like her because she is very friendly and sweet. She will try to help with as much as possible. She is a Star because she shines not only for herself but so that someone else will look at her light and shine also. Thanks to Tiara for this nomination.

Tina from a public library in Newport News, VA, is a Star because Tina is always courteous, helpful, professional, friendly, efficient,informative,always recommending material of interest to me. Tina is an excellent librarian with an easy wit and contagious smile. It is always a pleasure to visit the libary when she is present because her mood is always so upbeat. It always seems I'm visiting an old friend. Thanks to Tina for this nomination.

Laverne from a public library in Newport News, VA, is a Star because not only is Lavern very helpful and caring to patrons, she continues to nurture new employees. She is always helpful, and always has a nice word to say about everyone. She makes the place HUM!!. Thanks to Anonymous for this nomination.

Raymond from a public library in Newport News, VA, is a Star because he is more than just the guard at the library. He answers all questions and concerns. There is always a smile on his face for all library patrons. If there is a problem with someone not using their "library manners", he handles the situation with professionalism. Thanks to Alice for this nomination.

Elizabeth from a public library in Newport News, VA, is a Star because she is always helpful and friendly. Thanks to Brad for this nomination.

Kimberly from a public library in Newport News, VA, is a Star because Kim is my super. I cut her title short for the following resons: Kim gives all of herself for the patrons and staff. She tries to help everyone no matter how difficult the task. She has trained me well. Kim is like a super woman in all she does. She always lends her to everyone and always has something encouraging to say. This is why I think she should be a Star. Thanks to La Fawn for this nomination.

La Fawn from a public library in Newport News, VA, is a Star because she goes out of her way for all of the patrons. She is always polite no matter rude we may get. She always find solutions to our emergacies and problems even the though they aren't hers. She voluntarily provide us with a down home feeling with her smiles, wit and her wonderful fashion (mostly her hair..we love the new looks). She is like a box of chocolates..you never know what your going to get...meaning in a good way. Thanks to Dorothy for this nomination.

Tina from a public library in Newport News, VA, is a Star because she has always been a outatanding represenative for the library,extremly knowledgable and resourcful. Many time going the extra mile in researching the availabilty of a book, going to the shelves to find a book that was in one of three locations in the library. She has proven to be a friend of the patrons and recomended various authors of like genre that I enjoy reading. She always is friendly and has a pleasant smile for smile for the people she serves and inquires to the health of family members she knows are going through a hard time.To sum it all up Tina is just a wonderful person who deserves special reconition. Thanks to Joseph for this nomination.

WASHINGTON

All the staff, volunteers, and Friends of a public library in Spokane, WA are Stars! Without these people how would we find the things we need in the library?  Who would help us figure out how to work the copy machine, the self-checkouts, and the computers?  Who would put the books back where they belong on the shelves so everyone can find them?  Who would help us check out books, renew our cards, place holds, reserve computer time, and answer our questions?  Who would handle all the donations and returned books--both the good and the "I'm not touching that thing!" books?  Who would do Storytime and decorate for holidays and inform customers of upcoming events?  Who would we complain to when something goes wrong?  Who would pack the books to be shipped to a different library and unpack the shipment for their own library?  Who would call us to let us know we've been using our tax return check for a bookmark?  (^O^)  Everyone who works for these libraries, even the ones we never see, is a Star to be celebrated for putting up with the rest of us and helping us with whatever we need.  Let's celebrate National Library Workers Day together!

The Spokane County Library District of Spokane, WA, is a wellness Star! We try to keep things fun and interesting by coming up with new solutions to old problems and fun things for everyone to do.  We try to smile at everyone, even when we don't feel like it--you never know...a smile may be exactly what someone needed.  If someone's sick and can't be at work, people will shuffle themselves around to pick up the slack.  Each year there's a staff development day, which usually includes a few speakers for different subjects each year, lunch, activities, prizes, and awards and recognitions. Thanks to Alice for this nomination.

Gary from a school library in Vancouver, WA, is a Star because he always graciously gives of his time, knowledge, and library expertise not only to the students of his high school but also to the district and state teacher librarians he works with in Washington. When I have grown weary, Gary has always been there to boost my morale with encouraging words and advice. Having Gary as a role model, colleague and friend has enriched my professional life beyond measure. Thanks to Paige for this nomination.

Lutgarda from a special library in Auburn, WA, is a Star because she is entirely devoted to serving our library patrons and being here despite all personal obstacles. Ludy exhibits absolute professionalism while sharing heartfelt personalism in the library work culture. Thanks to Lori for this nomination.

amy
public library in liberty lake, wa
Star because She does such a great job working with liberty lake's children. She does 4 storytimes a week with ages infant to 5 years. She comes up with themes, fingerplays, and crafts. Often she has standing room only. She is so creative. Our library has a flower theme on the walls based on a children's picture book by lois elhert called planting a rainbow. She works with mothers to make sure their visit is as painless as possible. If a child is a little cranky, amy gets out the crayons and coloring pages...she also shows them books to divert their attention. She will go to our adult side (which is the next door down) and get items for a parent if she has kids in tow. She works part time but gives 110% 100 percent of the time. She visits schools and daycares outside of her working hours sometimes....and enjoys every minute of it. These are just some of the many reasons i nominate amy.  From tracy.

The staff of a school library system in Spokane, WA, are Stars because through budget cuts, staff reductions, multiple work sites per person each week, and work loads that remain the same or greater, the library clerks have stepped up to the plate and continue to service the staff and students in the libraries in which they work processing new materials, data base management, assisting the Librarian with check-out, shelving and shelf management, just a few of our duties. I am a clerk, and wish to commend each fellow worker for continuing our work even though it seems like an unsurmountable task at times. Thanks to each of you, and to our Teacher-Librarians for their patience in the reduced clerk assistance time. Thanks to Betty for this nomination.

WEST VIRGINIA

Beth from a public library in Bluefield, WV, is a Star because Beth is always extremely friendly, polite, and an inspiration to all. She is constantly helping other employees, whether it is assisting in the development of programs, making displays, or providing rides to work and home when needed. She also donates treats and supplies to the story hours she does. Beth is always upbeat and an inspiration to work with. She is definitely a Star in our workplace. Thanks to Suzette for this nomination.

Belinda from a school library in Elkins, WV, is a Star because she is very helpful. She helps everyone try to find that perfect book to read. She even goes beyond the job of Librarian. She help students with homework also. I can't wait to see her everyday. I sometimes just go to the library to say hello. Thanks to Brittany for this nomination.

WISCONSIN

Charlene from an academic library in Fond du Lac, WI, is a Star because Charlene has had to manage up to 18 people and has always used a team approach to management. Charlene is a "hands off" supervisor which allows her staff to grow but is always there if one needs her help. Charlene is a Working Manager and never expects anything from anyone that she would not do. Thanks to Mary Janice for this nomination.

WYOMING

 

INTERNATIONAL

Bujar from an academic library in Elbasan, Albania, is a Star. You will be astonished, but I propose my name.
1)I am the only Albanian ALA MEMBER;
2)I have worked in a library for over 30 years;
3)I have created my university’s library;
4My monthly salary is $400,and with this salary I pay for my Membership and attend the ALA Annual Conference every year;
5)I serve 110,000 students with only four librarians. Libraries in Albania are not like those in the U.S.A.!
Thanks to Bujar for this nomination.

Asaju from a school library in Abuja, Nigeria, is a Star because he just graduated but has so much zeal geared towards affect pupils' lives through creative library services. He has approached numberless schools in the fct abuja asking to be given the opportunity to Start his attractive career in media/school librarianship. Unfortunately, none of the school administrators have given him a chance yet. But he has no plan to give up his dream to be one of the most celebrated nigerian school librarian, as he keeps thinking and striving to have his way through the insentive and bleak nigerian system. He trecks miles everyday to schools with the hope for breakthrough. Thanks to Asaju for this nomination.

Marina from a special library in Germany is a Star because she is a hard-worker who is always willing to go the extra mile for our patrons. She is a German national working on an American Army post library in germany, and she helps our patrons with their translating and in many other ways. Thanks to Nan for this nomination.

Carolin from a special library in Germany is a Star because she is an innovator and thinker. She is constantly coming up with new ideas to make our library the best it can be. She is a German national, working in an American Army library in Germany, and she is always friendly and helpful to our patrons. Thanks to Nan for this nomination.

Violetta from a special library in Germany is a Star because she is always willing to try new things and improve how things are already done. Our library is an Army library in Germany, and Vi is a German national who works so well with our American patrons, helping them in many different ways. Thanks to Nan for this nomination.

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Copyright 2006 ALA-APA Contact Jenifer Grady, 50 E. Huron, Chicago, IL 60611 - 312.280.2424 - jgrady@ala.org for more information.