Congratulations to the 10 winners of the 2017 I Love My Librarian Award! Thank you to all the library supporters who sent in nominations. More than 1100 library patrons submitted detailed stories regarding how their librarian had an impact on their communities and lives. 2017 recipients were selected for their dedicated public service and the valuable role they play in our nation’s communities in transforming lives through education.

Press release: ALA announces winners of the 2017 I Love My Librarian Award

Julie Bill

Musicians Institute College of Contemporary Music

Los Angeles, California

“The library is the ‘go to place’ for technical, support, how to, reference, and directional questions relating to library services, IT, and all aspects of the college.”

Julie Bill nomination (PDF)

Sheikla Blount

Columbiana Middle School

Columbiana, Alabama

“She has always been the bright spot we show off to the rest of the world because of her accomplishments and her heart. She is never too busy to help someone.”

Sheikla Blount nomination (PDF)

Annie Cipolla

Los Angeles Public Library

Los Angeles, California

“Annie Cipolla possesses all the qualities of an ideal librarian, including a deep mastery of her profession along with a dynamic, forward-thinking ability to lead.”

Annie Cipolla nomination (PDF)

Rosemary Cooper

Albert Wisner Public Library

Warwick, New York

“If you mention Warwick to someone from outside our area, people often respond about what a fantastic library we have and they mention Rosemary Cooper by name.”

Rosemary Cooper nomination (PDF)

Laurie Doan

Tredyffrin Public Library

Strafford, Pennsylvania

“She goes far beyond the basics of her job working with teens—she is a leader and a mentor who provides many real opportunities for teens to stretch their wings and learn essential life skills in a safe and supported way.”

Laurie Doan nomination (PDF)

Mary Jo Fayoyin

Savannah State University

Savannah, Georgia

“Mrs. Fayoyin makes the university a better place because of her focus on assessment and evaluation. She is constantly evaluating library services, resources, and instruction.”

Mary Jo Fayoyin nomination (PDF)

Natalia Fernández

Oregon State UniversityCorvallis, Oregon

“Those of us who have had the opportunity to collaborate with her—be it as co-authors, instructors, researchers, or students— have felt the impact of her generous character and rigorous attention to detail and historical accuracy.”

Natalia Fernández nomination (PDF)

Marcia Kochel

Druid Hills Middle School

Decatur, Georgia

“Her work in the library has had a ripple effect across the entire school in direct and indirect ways that has built community, nurtured collaboration and creativity, and supported a culture of learning and curiosity.”

Marcia Kochel nomination (PDF)

Rita Platt

St. Croix Falls Elementary

St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin

“Before Rita came to our school our students did not truly understand what goals were, not to mention a plan as to how to achieve them. That has all changed.”

Rita Platt nomination (PDF)

Timothy Ryan

Rochester Public Library

Rochester, New York

“The Sully Branch and Mr. Ryan are a beacon of hope and resilience. They are a positive symbol that inspires each of us to give back to the community we live in.”

Timothy Ryan nomination (PDF)