91´«Ã½

CHICAGO – Hilda Weisburg, retired school librarian and editor of “School Librarian's Workshop,” is the recipient of the 2016 American Association of School Librarians’ (AASL) Distinguished Service Award. Sponsored by Baker and Taylor, the $3,000 award recognizes an individual member of the library profession who has, over a significant period of time, made an outstanding national contribution to school librarianship and school library development.

“Hilda exceeds the criteria for this award in every category,” wrote AASL Past President Gail Dickinson in her nomination. “She has been a model of service and visionary leadership to AASL, to her state affiliate and to the profession for decades, with over 30 years of experience in school libraries. In addition to her work as a school librarian, through her work in writing and publishing, she has shared the milestones of significant and influential research and is responsible for a body of publications that have contributed to the professional development for thousands of practicing school librarians.”

“Through her career, Mrs. Weisburg has mentored many New Jersey Association of School Librarians members – including me,” wrote Jennifer Jamison in her letter of support. “I know that her encouragement and support helped me and my community to develop a program that was the recipient of the 2013 AASL School Library Program of the Year and that her inspiration to be the best had a hand in my recognition as Carnegie Foundation/New York Times I Love My Librarian award recipient. I know I owe Mrs. Weisburg a great deal and I know countless others who also have also benefited from her selfless service, generous spirit and constant example of what it means to do your best.”

“Hilda continues to be actively involved in both the AASL and 91´«Ã½ communities," said Terry Young, award committee chair. "Her contributions to the school library profession spans decades: committee chair/member, presentations, task force chair/member, Affiliate Assembly, etc. Even when she isn't in front of a group, you know Hilda is behind the scenes doing her thing – advocating for school librarians and school libraries. Thank you Hilda!”

The AASL award winners will be honored at the AASL Awards Ceremony during the 2016 91´«Ã½ Annual Conference in Orlando. The ceremony will be held from 9 – 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 25. All are welcome to celebrate the accomplishments of their peers during this recognition event taking place prior to the AASL President’s Program.

The American Association of School Librarians , a division of the 91´«Ã½ (91´«Ã½), empowers leaders to transform teaching and learning.