91´«Ã½

The award honors the life and accomplishments of John Iliff, early adopter and champion of technology in public libraries, and recognizes the contributions of a library worker, librarian, or library that has used technology and innovative thinking as a tool to improve services to public library users. The purpose is to encourage innovative user-oriented thinking and practical solutions using technologies old and new. The cash award honors the recipient's efforts, while the roses sent to the workplace honor the environment that helped nurture the recipient's innovation, and express John Iliff's belief that everyone can bloom where they are planted.

Deliverables and outcomes:

• For the jury chair and members:
  • Stay apprised of the timeline in which PLA staff opens and closes the nomination application webpage via notices on PLA’s website and PLA members-only emails
  • Review award applications and supporting materials
  • Monitor award criteria and, if necessary, recommend changes in criteria or the jury’s charge
  • Increase awareness of the award and the number of applicants by spreading the word about the call for nominations
• For the jury chair:
  • Communicate meeting plans with the members of the jury
  • Lead virtual deliberation meetings
  • Vote on a winner in case of a tie among jury members
  • Contact the award’s winner(s) and confirm their acceptance of award
  • Complete jury selection form and send same to jury’s staff liaison

Expected time commitment:

• Review award applications and supporting materials (1–3 hours/year)
• Attend virtual deliberation meetings (2–3 hours/year)
• Respond to emails (1–2 hours/year)

Desired skills, knowledge, or experience:

• Experience working as a member of a virtual team
• Ability to critically analyze award submissions and eligibility criteria
• Strong communication skills