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CHICAGO — The 2012 awards offered by the Association for Specialized and Cooperative Library Agencies (ASCLA) are an excellent chance to recognize colleagues, institutions or particular programs for their contributions to ASCLA and the areas of librarianship in which they serve.

The nomination deadline is Dec. 15, 2011 for the awards, which recognize accomplishments in the following areas:

Projects focused on library services to people with disabilities: The ASCLA/KLAS/NOD Award is sponsored by , the and This $1,000 award and citation are given to a library organization that has provided services for people with disabilities. The award recognizes an innovative and well-organized project that successfully developed or expanded services for people with disabilities. The award can be for a specific service(s) program or for a library that has made its total services more accessible through changing physical and/or attitudinal barriers. (PDF).

Advancement of library service for the blind and physically handicapped: The Francis Joseph Campbell Award honors a person or institution for outstanding and significant contributions in this field of service with a medal and a citation. Contributions include but are not limited to: an imaginative and constructive program in a particular library; a recognized contribution to the national library program for blind persons; creative participation in library associations or organizations that advance reading for the blind; a significant publication or writing in the field; or imaginative contribution to library administration, reference, circulation, selection, acquisitions or technical services; or any activity of recognized importance. The award is sponsored by Keystone Systems, Inc. and the Southern Conference of the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS), Library of Congress. (PDF).

Extension and Outreach Services: The Exceptional Service Award recognizes exceptional service to patients, to persons who are homebound, to people of all ages who live in group homes or residences and to inmates, as well as to recognize professional leadership, effective interpretation of programs, pioneering activity and significant research or experimental projects. The recipient receives a citation. (PDF).

Cooperative, Consulting and State Library Services: The Leadership and Professional Achievement Award is a citation presented to one or more ASCLA members (personal or organizational) exemplifying leadership and achievement in the following areas: consulting, library cooperation, networking, statewide services and programs and state library development. (PDF).

Service to ASCLA: The Cathleen Bourdon Service Award is a citation presented to an ASCLA personal member for exceptional service and sustained leadership to the division. This includes participation in activities that have enhanced the stature, reputation and overall strength of ASCLA and have also cultivated the division’s relationship with other appropriate organizations, institutions or governmental agencies. (PDF).

Those interested in submitting a nomination may download the appropriate award nomination form(s) from the or request the form(s) from Liz Markel, ASCLA marketing and programs manager, via e-mail at lmarkel@ala.org. Nominations for all awards must be received by Dec. 15, 2011. Submission information can be found on each nomination form.

ASCLA, a division of the 91´«Ã½ (91´«Ã½), is a diverse organization of librarians and support staff who work in academic and public libraries, state agencies, specialized libraries and multi-type cooperatives, as well as those who are self-employed. Our division’s work centers on that represent the diversity and important work of our engaged and active members. Not an ASCLA member, but interested in discounted registration rates on conference, ASCLA preconference and other ASCLA events? Join, renew or add ASCLA to your 91´«Ã½ membership at .